In the realm of jokes, some seem to effortlessly write themselves. Take the case of Harry Kane’s departure from Tottenham and his debut for Bayern Munich in the German Super Cup final. The punchline was obvious: Kane had played countless games and scored a record number of goals for Spurs, yet left without a single trophy. Meanwhile, on his first appearance for Bayern, he had the chance to win silverware while Tottenham’s drought continued. It was a bitter blow to those left behind in North London, waving goodbye to their greatest player of the modern era.
But sometimes, jokes take an unexpected twist. Kane’s debut for Bayern ended in a 3-0 defeat to RB Leipzig, prolonging his search for a trophy until at least the end of the season. However, what’s more significant is that Tottenham has not looked back since his departure. Under Ange Postecoglou’s guidance, Spurs have made their best start to a league season since 1960/61 when they last won the title. There is no hangover, no sense of loss. What’s truly remarkable about the post-Kane era is how little he has been mentioned at all.
Though the breakup is still in its early stages, Tottenham is defying all odds and flourishing. Bayern’s relentless pursuit of the England captain and Daniel Levy’s stubbornness during negotiations may have resulted in Kane’s sale just days before the start of the Premier League season. It could have left Spurs in disarray, but instead, the timing of the split, long overdue, has proven perfect for all parties involved.
Sure, Tottenham’s position at the top of the Premier League is commendable, but that’s not the main point. Spurs have been revitalized, and selling Kane seems to have sped up Postecoglou’s transformation of the club within just two months. There is no hangover, no feeling of being left behind. Instead, Tottenham now plays with confidence and spirit. They are unrecognizable from the chaotic mess of the previous season that Kane left behind.
While Spurs’ early-season success may come as a surprise, it’s no shock to witness Kane’s immediate impact at Bayern. The 30-year-old has already scored 12 Bundesliga goals in nine appearances, two more in the Champions League, and provided seven assists. Bayern may have their own issues under Thomas Tuchel, but the arrival of a genuine superstar has given them a lift. Kane’s recent performance only enhanced his superstar status, leaving Bayern and Germany enamored with the presence of a world-class striker. It’s hard to deny his grandeur, just look at what he did over the weekend.
However, strangely enough, murmurs have started to emerge suggesting that Tottenham may be better off without Kane. It’s a joke that could easily catch on, especially after Tottenham went five points clear at the top of the Premier League table. But the truth is that Postecoglou’s approach and philosophy help explain that Tottenham is not better without Kane, but rather different. In a remarkably short period, the Australian has instilled a mindset that values the system over individualism. This shift has allowed for individual improvements within the system to compensate for the loss of a club legend like Kane.
The game against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park serves as an interesting example. While Tottenham would most likely have won with Kane, the way they broke through a resolute Palace defense by remaining patient, exploiting the wide areas, and maintaining possession exemplified the change in mentality since the summer.
Success of this nature necessitates individuals putting the system above themselves. This is not to suggest that Kane was ever selfish or prioritized himself over the team; quite the opposite. But previously, in frustrating situations like the first half at Selhurst Park, Spurs might have relied on Kane to conjure something extraordinary or pull off a miracle. Now, there is a more even distribution of responsibility, as evidenced by James Maddison seamlessly stepping into Kane’s No. 10 shirt. Tottenham has shown an ability to navigate challenging situations as a collective unit. Pressing led to goals against Fulham, and exploiting overloads secured victory at Crystal Palace. Postecoglou has instilled in his players the belief and confidence that they possess the capacity to find solutions on their own. This, rather than Kane’s departure, is the true difference.
