Antonio Conte has changed his mind about Tottenham’s business in the January transfer window, saying his side is now “more complete” thanks to new arrivals.
Tottenham had big plans for the January window, but ended up falling short of many fans’ expectations. After weeks of speculation, they brought in two of sporting director Fabio Paratici’s former Juventus players, Rodrigo Bentancur and Dejan Kulusevski, while letting Dele Alli, Tanguy Ndombele, Giovani lo Celso and Byran Gil leave.
At the time, Conte appeared frustrated with the club’s efforts in the market. Back in mid-February, amid some particularly patchy Spurs form, the Italian gave an illuminating interview in which he openly criticised his employers.
“What happened in January was not easy,” Conte told Sky Italia . “We lost four players in January. Four important players for Tottenham, and we brought in only two. So even just in terms of numbers, rather than reinforce the squad, we on paper weakened it. Bentancur and Kulusevski are ideal prospects for Tottenham, because Tottenham are seeking young players they can develop and grow, not players who are ready. That is the issue.”
Spurs were unable to shake off their inconsistency straight after the closing of the January transfer window. February and the beginning of March was defined by wins being followed by defeats for Conte’s side.
Tottenham’s form is showing signs of improvement now, however, with four wins coming from their last five Premier League games giving the club renewed hope of a top-four finish. Sunday’s 5-1 win over Newcastle saw Spurs leapfrog rivals Arsenal into fourth place ahead of the Gunners’ match against Crystal Palace on Monday and also prompted a reassessment of the club’s recent business from Conte.
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“I said that with these two players, despite that we lost four players in January, with these two new signings we made this squad more complete, with more balance,” Conte said. “I think that it’s very important in football to have a clear idea, and to have a good vision. Because in this way, the situation is more simple.”
While Bentancur has settled well in central midfield, it is Kulusevski who has really caught the eye for Spurs since his arrival. The Swedish winger has two goals and five assists in 10 Premier League games and has combined brilliantly with Harry Kane and Son Heung-min
“We are talking about a player that I know very well, because he played in Italy,” Conte said of the 21-year-old. “He started to play with Atalanta, then Atalanta brought (sent) him on loan to Parma, and he played in Serie A. And he played in a fantastic way. When I was coach of Inter, I tried to ask him, but then Juventus moved before. Maybe they put more money than us at the time, and then they bought this player.
“We are talking about a player who is only 21 years old. And he has to continue to play this way. Because he’s strong physically, big engine, he’s good technically. I think for Tottenham, this is a great signing for the present and for the future. We are talking about really, really strong.”
