Tudor’s Dream Spurs XI: Maddison and Kulusevski Return to Create the Most Dangerous Tottenham Lineup Ever
Tudor’s Dream Spurs XI: Maddison and Kulusevski Return to Create the Most Dangerous Tottenham Lineup Ever
Tottenham Hotspur’s ideal starting XI under Igor Tudor for a hypothetical fully fit showdown with Arsenal paints a picture of balance, intensity, and tactical flexibility. If injuries were not a factor and every player were available for selection, this is how Spurs could line up — and why each name would likely get the nod.
Goalkeeper
Guglielmo Vicario
With no fitness concerns affecting either of Tottenham’s senior goalkeepers, the choice would ultimately come down to trust and experience. Vicario has already proven himself reliable between the posts, and his composure, command of the box, and shot-stopping consistency would almost certainly see him retain the gloves. Even with strong competition pushing him, he remains the safe and logical pick for a high-stakes derby.
Defence
Cristian Romero
Despite occasional rash challenges that can raise eyebrows, Romero’s quality is unquestionable. He is still widely regarded as one of the elite central defenders in world football, combining aggression, anticipation, and leadership. If fit, he walks into any Spurs lineup regardless of tactical system or manager preference.
Kevin Danso
Danso has quietly built a reputation as Tottenham’s dependable defensive option — a role once synonymous with Ben Davies. Whenever called upon, he delivers composed and disciplined displays. Given that reliability, he would likely edge out Radu Drăgușin for a starting spot when everyone is available.
Micky van de Ven
The Dutchman’s partnership with Romero flourished during the tenure of Thomas Frank, and his inclusion would be almost guaranteed in a back-three setup. Van de Ven’s exceptional pace and ability to defend large spaces make him tailor-made for systems that rely on quick recovery runs and aggressive positioning.
Wing-Backs
Pedro Porro
Porro’s attacking instincts are one of his greatest strengths, even if defensive lapses occasionally surface. A wing-back role would maximize his forward threat while minimizing defensive exposure, making it the perfect tactical solution. Using him in his natural role also prevents having to deploy Archie Gray out of position.
Destiny Udogie
On the left, it would be a close call between Udogie and Djed Spence, who has impressed with his versatility across multiple roles. However, Udogie’s natural left-footed balance and attacking thrust give him the edge in a system that values width and forward momentum from wide areas.
Midfield Pivot
Conor Gallagher
Gallagher is beginning to find his rhythm in a Spurs shirt, and his relentless energy sets him apart from more composed midfielders such as Rodrigo Bentancur and João Palhinha. His pressing, stamina, and willingness to drive forward add dynamism that could prove crucial in a derby battle.
Archie Gray
Gray represents the youthful spark within the squad and has arguably been one of Tottenham’s most consistent performers this season. Regardless of whether he is deployed in midfield or elsewhere, he rarely drops below a solid performance level. His reliability and maturity beyond his years make him hard to leave out.
Attacking Midfielders
James Maddison
Creativity is Maddison’s domain, and in a fully fit squad he would likely be chosen over Xavi Simons. While Simons’ form has impressed, Maddison’s experience and proven understanding of Premier League intensity would be invaluable in a clash against elite opposition.
Dejan Kulusevski
Kulusevski’s all-round contribution gives him the advantage over Mohammed Kudus for the second advanced midfield slot. He blends creativity with tireless work rate, presses aggressively from the front, tracks back diligently, and can drive forward with the ball — traits that align perfectly with a high-energy tactical approach.
Striker
Dominic Solanke
Up front, Solanke stands out as Tottenham’s most productive forward option. Beyond his goal-scoring instincts, he excels at linking play, holding up possession, and bringing teammates into attacking moves. Those attributes make him not just a finisher but also a focal point for the entire attacking structure.
Overall, if Tudor had the luxury of a completely fit squad, his strongest XI would likely combine defensive solidity, energetic pressing, and creative flair. The blend of proven experience and emerging talent suggests a side capable of both controlling matches and striking decisively — exactly what Tottenham would want in a high-pressure North London derby.