Tottenham win but attacking issues remain
Tottenham Hotspur finally ended their long wait for a Premier League victory, as Tottenham Hotspur defeated Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday at Molineux under Roberto De Zerbi.
A hard-fought return to winning ways
Spurs had not tasted success in the league since December, but a more encouraging display in their previous outing carried into this clash. Even so, securing all three points proved far from straightforward against a side already relegated.
The decisive moment came late, when substitute Joao Palhinha bundled in the winner. Despite the relief of victory, the result did little to improve their standing, especially with West Ham United also winning against Everton. The performance suggested there is still significant work ahead for De Zerbi to restore fluency to his team.
Kolo Muani experiment faltering
For the third consecutive match, Randal Kolo Muani was deployed on the right flank, but once again he struggled to influence proceedings. Substituted at half-time, his display reflected a difficult opening period for Spurs overall.
Although he managed 34 touches, his contribution lacked attacking quality. He surrendered possession 12 times and failed to produce a key pass or accurate cross. The French forward has now scored only once in the league this season, and his continued use in that role appears increasingly questionable, particularly with Mohammed Kudus and Dejan Kulusevski unavailable.
His brief early promise has faded quickly, and with little impact in recent outings, a return to Paris Saint-Germain in the summer looks likely.
Solanke struggles highlight attacking issues
Kolo Muani is not alone in underperforming. Since the departure of Harry Kane, Spurs have lacked a reliable central striker, and Dominic Solanke has yet to fill that void.
Signed in 2024 by Ange Postecoglou, Solanke has scored just 12 league goals overall, with only three arriving this season. Injuries have repeatedly disrupted his progress, making him an unreliable option during a period when consistency is crucial.
Against Wolves, he managed just 22 touches and did not register a single attempt on goal before being forced off injured. His current level is far removed from the form that saw him score 19 top-flight goals in his final campaign with AFC Bournemouth.
With Richarlison pushing for a starting role after contributing to the winning goal, the Brazilian may become central to Spurs’ hopes in the closing stages of the season. Meanwhile, Solanke’s modest return raises serious questions about his future, with his signing increasingly viewed as a major disappointment from the previous regime.
