As the 2024/25 season unfolds, Tottenham Hotspur finds itself navigating a complex landscape of highs and lows. With the Premier League campaign in full swing, manager Ange Postecoglou has garnered attention for both his tactical decisions and the performance of his squad. Currently sitting in seventh place, Spurs are just four points adrift of the coveted top four, but their journey has been marred by inconsistency, highlighted by disappointing defeats to Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion.
Among the standout players for Tottenham this season has been Heung-min Son, whose contributions have drawn widespread acclaim, particularly following a strong showing in the win over West Ham United. In contrast, Timo Werner, a forward on loan from RB Leipzig, has been underwhelming. The disparity between the performances of these players has prompted discussions about Werner’s role at the club, especially as the January transfer window approaches.
Werner joined Tottenham on a short-term loan in January, which was later extended, giving him a chance to make a significant impact. However, his statistics tell a different story. In his time with Spurs, he has managed only two goals and one assist across 23 appearances, with a particularly dismal run that has seen him fail to score since March. This lack of output has raised questions about his fit within Postecoglou’s vision for the team.
Former Spurs manager Harry Redknapp has expressed his disappointment with Werner’s performances, suggesting that he has not lived up to the expectations that come with his experience and talent. Gary Neville has also criticized Werner’s finishing, pointing out that the German has squandered numerous chances that could have turned matches in Spurs’ favor. The mounting evidence suggests that Werner is struggling to adapt to the demands of the Premier League and, more importantly, to the style of play that Postecoglou is implementing.
One of the most concerning aspects of Werner’s form is its impact on Tottenham’s younger players, particularly 17-year-old Mikey Moore. Despite the potential he has shown, Moore has found it challenging to secure playing time, accumulating just 21 minutes of action in the Premier League compared to Werner’s nine appearances this season. The contrast in their opportunities raises a pivotal question: Is Werner’s presence blocking the development of promising talents like Moore?
Moore has made a stronger impression in the Europa League, where he has garnered 95 minutes and even secured a starting role against Ferencvaros. This disparity indicates that while Tottenham is keen to provide experience to its squad, it is also essential to nurture young talent, especially when established players are not delivering on the pitch. Redknapp has urged Postecoglou to give Moore more chances, suggesting that the young player’s potential could be better harnessed if given the opportunity to shine in more significant roles.
With the January transfer window on the horizon, discussions are intensifying about Werner’s future at Tottenham. According to reports from German outlet Kicker, Spurs would not stand in the way of Werner if an opportunity arose for him to leave in January. This development could pave the way for a much-needed change, both for the player and the club.
At 28 years old, Werner is at a stage in his career where clarity about his role and contributions is essential. Tottenham is well aware of what they have in him, and the lack of production combined with his hefty £165,000-per-week wage makes it a financial consideration for the club. Moving on from Werner could allow Spurs to explore other options in the transfer market or, perhaps more importantly, create space for younger players like Moore to step up and make their mark.
The ongoing situation surrounding Timo Werner highlights the challenges that come with balancing experience and youth in a competitive league like the Premier League. While Spurs have shown flashes of brilliance this season, the inconsistency and underwhelming performances from certain players, notably Werner, raise concerns about their ability to compete at the highest level.
As January approaches, Tottenham must weigh their options carefully. A potential departure for Werner could not only relieve the club of a misfiring player but also provide valuable minutes to younger talents eager to prove themselves. Ultimately, the decisions made in the coming weeks could significantly impact the trajectory of Spurs’ season and the development of its rising stars.
