Tottenham Hotspur is facing speculation about possible changes to the position assignments ahead of the UEFA Europa League final, raising the likelihood that captain Son Heung-min (33) may not start.

Football London reported on the 20th that Tottenham has hinted at the possibility of modifying its existing position setup for the UEFA Europa League final against Manchester United.

Football London analyzed that "Tottenham may attempt strategic changes on this decisive stage."

Currently, Tottenham is facing a serious loss of manpower. Key midfielders including James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski, and Lucas Bergvall are all sidelined due to injuries, leaving coach Ange Postecoglou with limited options. In this context, the necessity to reorganize the midfield has increased, which naturally impacts the attack as well.

Football London projected that "If the 4-3-3 formation is maintained, either Son Heung-min or Richarlison may have to start on the bench as the left winger." It is highly likely that Pape Sarr, Rodrigo Bentancur, and Yves Bissouma will be assigned to the midfield, and this combination has received praise for showing organizational strength beyond expectations in recent matches.

As a result, it has formed a scenario where it is difficult for Son Heung-min and Richarlison to play together. Particularly considering that coach Postecoglou has been managing Richarlison’s condition steadily, it is argued that there is a significant possibility he will start in this final.

Another formation scenario has emerged. If the 4-4-2 system is chosen, Son Heung-min and Brennan Johnson would be deployed on the wings, while Dominic Solanke and Richarlison could lead the attack as a two-man front line.

Under the 4-2-3-1 formation, Solanke would take on the role of a sole striker, with Son Heung-min or Wilson Odobert possibly deployed as an attacking midfielder. Odobert made a strong impression on the coach with outstanding movement in a recent match against Aston Villa, so it can't be ruled out that he might become a surprise key player.

On the other hand, formations based on three defenders (3-4-3, 3-5-2) are evaluated as unlikely due to Tottenham's unstable defensive balance and coach Postecoglou's tactical philosophy.

This final presents a crucial opportunity for Tottenham to change the momentum of a season that has been disappointing, transcending a simple title fight. Thus, even a small change in the starting lineup has garnered significant interest not only within the team but also among fans. The possibility that the captain Son Heung-min could start on the bench is emerging as a strange and uncomfortable scenario for Korean fans.

Eyes are on what final decision coach Postecoglou will make and whether Son Heung-min can once again make his presence felt on an important stage.

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