The football world has been buzzing about Jadon Sancho‘s meteoric rise at Borussia Dortmund, but Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino claims he saw it coming all along. As Spurs prepare to host the Bundesliga leaders in a high-stakes Champions League last-16 tie at Wembley this Wednesday, Mostplay provides an in-depth tactical breakdown of what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Pochettino’s Insight on Sancho’s Development
When asked about Sancho‘s breakthrough season, Pochettino displayed the tactical awareness that has made him one of football’s most respected managers. “He doesn’t surprise me,” the Argentine stated matter-of-factly. “We knew very well that he was capable of this with regular game time.”
The 18-year-old winger has taken the Bundesliga by storm, contributing 8 goals and 10 assists in just 21 league appearances this season. His performances have not only propelled Dortmund to the top of the German table but also earned him a regular spot in Gareth Southgate’s England squad.
The Transfer Question Pochettino Won’t Answer
Sancho revealed in a recent interview with Four Four Two Magazine that Tottenham were among the clubs interested in signing him before his move to Germany. When pressed on this revelation, Pochettino remained characteristically coy. “I’m not talking about that,” he said with a smile that suggested more than he was willing to say.
This diplomatic response has fueled speculation among Mostplay analysts about what might have been had Sancho chosen North London over Westphalia. The young Englishman’s decision to seek first-team football abroad has proven inspired, with his market value skyrocketing since the £8 million move from Manchester City.
Tactical Preview: Spurs vs Dortmund
This Champions League tie presents fascinating tactical battles:
Dortmund’s Attacking Threat
- Sancho‘s partnership with Marco Reus and Paco Alcacer has been devastating
- Full-backs Achraf Hakimi and Lukasz Piszczek provide dangerous width
- Vertical passing game that exploits spaces behind defensive lines
Tottenham’s Potential Advantages
- Home advantage at Wembley’s expansive pitch
- Harry Kane’s return to fitness and form
- Pochettino’s experience in European knockout ties
Pochettino’s Confidence Despite Tough Challenge
Acknowledging Dortmund’s quality, Pochettino remained characteristically optimistic about his team’s chances. “I really believe that we can win every single game,” he asserted. “We know very well that the competition is going to be tough, but I am a person who will always believe we can beat any team.”
This confidence stems from Tottenham’s impressive home record in Europe and their manager’s proven ability to outthink opponents in two-legged ties. However, with Dortmund five points clear in the Bundesliga and playing with fearless attacking verve, this promises to be one of the most evenly-matched last-16 encounters.
Mostplay Key Match Predictions
- Sancho’s Impact: The youngster will look to exploit any space behind Tottenham’s full-backs, particularly if Kieran Trippier pushes forward.
- Midfield Battle: Dortmund’s pressing game against Tottenham’s ball-playing midfield could decide the tempo.
- Set-Piece Importance: Both teams have aerial threats that could prove decisive in what promises to be a tight contest.
As the football world turns its attention to Wembley this Wednesday, Mostplay will be providing live updates and expert analysis throughout this fascinating Champions League showdown between two of Europe’s most exciting teams.
