Tottenham began pre-season with a 1-0 victory over MK Dons, but the result offered only a partial view of Roberto De Zerbi’s rebuilt side. The first Tottenham pre-season talking points included Mateus Fernandes’ immediate impact, quicker passing and a familiar lack of cutting edge.
Fernandes settled the friendly with a superb volley after only three minutes. However, Spurs struggled to turn their control into clear chances against a well-organised League One defence.
Several senior internationals were still absent after the World Cup. James Maddison also missed the game, despite having no international commitments this summer, while De Zerbi used different teams in each half.
The experimental selections limited any firm conclusions. Even so, Cartilage Free Captain’s match analysis identified several early trends which could influence Tottenham’s remaining transfer plans.
Tottenham pre-season talking points offer De Zerbi clues
The clearest tactical feature was Tottenham’s attempt to move the ball quickly. Fernandes, Sandro Tonali and Conor Gallagher often used one-touch passes to find the free player.
Those combinations were not always accurate. However, the intention reflected the type of third-man passing associated with De Zerbi’s teams.
Spurs also started with encouraging intensity. Their press disrupted MK Dons early, although the tempo fell as fitness levels became a factor.
Fernandes provided the outstanding moment. His first-time volley underlined the technical ability which persuaded Tottenham to sign him from West Ham.
Tottenham described Fernandes as a midfielder who is comfortable under pressure when announcing his arrival. De Zerbi also highlighted his ability to progress possession and make an impact in difficult moments.
ReadTottenham covered Fernandes’ spectacular debut goal, but his wider performance also offered encouragement. He combined quickly, competed for possession and looked comfortable within De Zerbi’s early structure.
Tottenham attack remains an obvious concern
The larger issue came in the final third. Tottenham controlled possession but rarely opened up an MK Dons side defending in a compact 5-4-1 shape.
Dominic Solanke struggled to influence the game, while Mathys Tel and Manor Solomon produced only occasional moments of danger. Richarlison later had a goal disallowed and saw another effort saved.
Tottenham need more imagination when opponents protect their penalty area. Quick passing can move a defence, but De Zerbi still requires players who can beat an opponent or deliver the decisive final action.
Mikey Moore provided some of those qualities after half-time. The academy winger attacked defenders and played several ambitious passes across the pitch.
Luca Williams-Barnett also caught the eye in an unfamiliar central role. His balance and willingness to progress possession helped Spurs threaten more often, although he sometimes held the ball for too long.
Their performances should earn further opportunities during the tour. However, placing too much creative responsibility on teenagers would be risky during a Champions League campaign.
De Zerbi has already created genuine competition
Sandro Tonali had a quieter introduction. MK Dons’ deep defensive shape limited his opportunities to carry the ball or play through open spaces.
The Italian will need time to understand the movements around him. His partnership with Fernandes remains one of the most important areas of Tottenham’s pre-season.
Martin Dubravka also made his debut and protected the lead with an excellent late save. Meanwhile, several academy players filled unfamiliar positions because of the reduced senior group.
De Zerbi has already warned that reputation will not determine his team selection. Moore and Williams-Barnett responded positively, while Fernandes made the strongest possible opening statement.
Tottenham’s first friendly was never going to define the new season. It did provide an early outline of De Zerbi’s intentions, alongside a reminder that the forward line still needs work.
