As Tottenham has signed Mohammed Kudus (25), local evaluations are emerging that it is an 'odd signing.'
The British 'Talksport' reported on the 15th (Korea time) that Perry Groves, a football commentator from Arsenal, commented that Tottenham's acquisition of Kudus could be 'a strange choice.'
Kudus is the third player to join Tottenham under coach Thomas Frank this summer. Tottenham was rejected three times in their offers to West Ham United for Kudus, but ultimately reached an agreement on a transfer fee of £55 million (approximately 102 billion won).
Groves said, 'Kudus's transfer to Tottenham is somewhat of an odd signing. He only did well not last season but the season before that,' and added, 'There won't be anyone among West Ham fans who will cry over his transfer.'
He continued, 'I've watched him a few times, but his attitude wasn't very good,' recalling that 'under coach Julen Lopetegui, and when Graham Potter came in, he was also used in unfamiliar positions such as the false 9.'
In particular, Groves pointed out, 'Above all, he's okay when breaking through with the ball, but his attitude when the ball is taken away and he has to return to defend was not good.' He added, 'Coach Frank will not tolerate such an attitude. However, he is definitely an interesting talent in attack. Evaluations are still pending.'
According to this media outlet, Tottenham is focusing on Kudus's breakthrough ability, who recorded the most dribbles (216 times) in the Premier League since the start of the 2023-2024 season.
Kudus also participated in his first official training with Tottenham on Monday, showing good condition and adapting quickly to the team under the guidance of Ben Davies (33). His debut in a friendly match against Reading this weekend is also expected.
There is an expectation that coach Frank, who has experience developing numerous attacking resources such as Ivan Toney, Ollie Watkins, and Bryan Mbeumo during his time at Brentford, can maximize Kudus's potential.
Kudus is receiving mixed evaluations, with expectations that he will ultimately replace Son Heung-min (33) and grow into a symbol of Tottenham. However, the perception of lacking commitment raises curiosity about how coach Frank will utilize Kudus.
[OSEN]