Spurs fans are convinced TV cameras picked up Maddison send damning Ange Postecoglou message during AZ Alkmaar lost
Tottenham Hotspur’s disappointing performance in their Europa League round of 16 clash against AZ Alkmaar on Thursday has sparked intense discussion among fans, particularly regarding a moment involving James Maddison that seemed to express frustration with manager Ange Postecoglou. While some supporters believe the attacking midfielder was sending a clear message about the team’s tactical approach, others have different interpretations of the incident.
Spurs Struggle in the Netherlands
Despite controlling possession for large stretches of the game, Spurs fell to a 1-0 defeat at the AFAS Stadion, courtesy of an unfortunate own goal from Lucas Bergvall in the 18th minute. The North London side dominated possession with 62%, significantly more than AZ’s 38%, yet they managed just one shot on target throughout the game. In contrast, the Dutch side posed a greater attacking threat, registering five shots on target and keeping Spurs’ defense under pressure.
While the defeat was disappointing, Tottenham still have a chance to turn things around in the second leg, which will take place at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Thursday, March 13. However, that does not erase the concerns many fans have about the team’s current form and attacking effectiveness.
Postecoglou Defends Players Amid Criticism
The lack of cutting-edge in the final third led to criticism from sections of the Spurs fanbase, with many calling out what they perceived as a lack of urgency and direction in the team’s performance. However, Ange Postecoglou defended his players, rejecting the notion that their effort or attitude was in question.
“I don’t think it’s a matter of effort or attitude. I don’t think it’s about going out there and not trying, but we didn’t really come to grips with the game or have the right mindset to tackle an away fixture in Europe,” Postecoglou said in his post-match comments.
Maddison’s Bench Reaction Sparks Debate
While Postecoglou played down concerns, a separate incident caught the attention of many fans. During the match, TV cameras appeared to capture James Maddison, who was on the bench alongside Son Heung-min, making a comment that some supporters believe was directed at Postecoglou’s tactical approach.
Although the exact words Maddison muttered remain unclear, social media quickly erupted with theories. One supporter claimed the 28-year-old midfielder was visibly frustrated and appeared to say:
“It’s the same play style all the time, what’s he seeing?”
This comment resonated with some fans, who feel Tottenham have become too predictable under Postecoglou.
Another fan criticized the tactical setup, suggesting:
“The problem yesterday is the players don’t know what the plan is.”
Meanwhile, a different interpretation suggested Maddison may have been referring to opposition players getting away with small fouls. One supporter stated:
“I think, being serious, he’s saying ‘player.’ Watching it back, he’s either referring to one of theirs who was constantly getting away with small fouls.”
Some fans even speculated Maddison and Son were reacting to Spurs’ failed free-kick routine, which was widely mocked online.
“Perhaps they were still discussing possibly the worst free-kick routine I’ve ever seen,” another fan joked.
Spurs Look to Bounce Back in the Premier League
With European frustration lingering, Tottenham must quickly shift their focus back to the Premier League, where they will host Andoni Iraola’s in-form Bournemouth on Sunday, March 9. The Cherries have been playing some of their best football of the season, meaning Spurs will need a much-improved performance to get back to winning ways.
With the second leg against AZ Alkmaar looming, fans will be watching closely to see if Postecoglou adjusts his tactics—and whether Maddison plays a key role in the response.