Tottenham Hotspur’s flank has been shaken up.
Italian football pundit Gianluca Di Marzio tweeted on his personal social media account on Sunday (July 7), “Ivan Perisic (34) is leaving Tottenham. He will return to his native Croatia and will soon terminate his contract with Tottenham.”
Perisic left Inter Milan for Spurs ahead of the 2022-23 season. He was the choice of then-manager Antonio Conte. He was a key player in Conte’s unique three-back system. He was regarded as an excellent attacker and a seasoned defender. Tottenham hoped to rebound with the addition of the veteran Perisic.
However, under Conte, Tottenham’s form has plummeted. Injuries to key players and uninspired attacking tactics were among the problems. Perisic was one of the main targets of criticism, especially as he often overlapped with star striker Son Heung-min, 30, which reduced his attacking efficiency. This is why Perisic’s performance was labeled as questionable 메이저놀이터.
After all, it looks like he’s leaving the club after just one season with Tottenham. Spurs are overhauling their squad ahead of the 2023-24 season with the appointment of Celtic manager Enze Postecoglou. According to Football London, Postecoglou favors a back four. Perisic’s position as a disruptive left-sided midfielder in a three-back role would be compromised. Furthermore, Perisic is already in his mid-30s and entering his twilight years.
His replacement is a 20-year-old prospect. Destiny Udoji, 20, was signed by Tottenham before last season and went on loan to Italian Serie A side Udinese. At the time, competition for a starting spot at Spurs was not easy. Perisic, Matt Doherty, Ryan Sessegnon (23), and Ben Davies (29) were all in the mix.
The loan move proved to be a godsend. Udoji became a key defensive and attacking force for Udinese. He was nominated for Italian Serie A’s best defender for the 2022-23 season. Tottenham have high hopes for him as well. During last season, Udoji visited Tottenham’s stadium and was reportedly warmly welcomed by the club’s officials before the 2023-24 season.
“Perisic is set to leave Tottenham,” says Football London, “with Udoji and Sessegnon likely to compete for the first-choice left-back role.”