Not Kudus or Johnson: Spurs’ “phenomenal” prodigy looks like Frank’s next version of Mbeumo
Thomas Frank’s arrival as Tottenham Hotspur head coach sparked a wave of excitement across North London this summer, as fans eagerly anticipated what the Danish tactician could bring following the club’s remarkable Europa League triumph. Having spent seven successful years at Brentford, Frank earned a reputation for developing players and building competitive squads on limited budgets — and many Spurs supporters were curious to see how his philosophy would translate to a club of Tottenham’s stature.
During his time at Brentford, Frank became known for getting the very best out of players like Bryan Mbeumo. The Cameroonian international flourished under his guidance, evolving from a promising forward into one of the Premier League’s most dynamic attackers. Mbeumo’s tally of 20 league goals last season cemented his place among the division’s top performers, and it was no surprise that he became one of the most sought-after talents in England.
When Frank took the reins at Tottenham, speculation immediately surfaced that he would attempt to reunite with his former star. Many fans dreamed of seeing Mbeumo don the Lilywhite shirt, believing his energy, intelligence, and work rate would be invaluable as Spurs aimed to build upon their European success. However, Tottenham’s hopes of signing him were dashed when Manchester United swooped in, completing a £71 million deal — a fee some viewed as slightly inflated but reflective of his growing reputation.
With Mbeumo off the market, Frank turned his attention to alternatives who could deliver a similar attacking spark. Tottenham moved swiftly to secure the £55 million signing of Mohammed Kudus from West Ham United — a statement of intent that demonstrated their ambition to continue competing at the top level.
Kudus and Johnson leading Spurs’ attacking charge
Kudus has quickly made his mark in North London. The Ghanaian midfielder’s combination of flair, strength, and versatility has already made him a fan favorite, and his return of one goal and four assists in his first ten appearances shows why Tottenham were willing to invest so heavily in him. His maiden goal came in the recent victory over Leeds United — a timely reminder of his ability to deliver in decisive moments.
However, Kudus is not the only player stepping up for the Lilywhites. Brennan Johnson, who famously scored the winning goal in last season’s Europa League final, continues to show flashes of brilliance. The Welsh international has already found the net three times this season across all competitions. Yet, his lack of recent league starts has raised eyebrows, with the 24-year-old reportedly frustrated by reduced playing time since Kudus’ arrival.
While both Kudus and Johnson are talented, neither has yet replicated the consistent output Mbeumo produced at Brentford. Still, Tottenham fans may not have to look far for a player capable of following that same path to stardom.
Wilson Odobert — Tottenham’s next breakout star?
Tottenham’s recent recruitment strategy has been a blend of securing ready-made stars and nurturing young prospects for the future. Their investment of nearly £400 million over the past few seasons has already paid dividends — most notably with their European triumph last May. Yet, one of their most intriguing acquisitions came in the summer of 2024, when the club quietly signed Wilson Odobert from Burnley for £25 million following the Clarets’ relegation.
At just 20 years old, Odobert’s potential is immense. The French winger arrived from Troyes before joining Burnley, following a career trajectory not unlike Mbeumo’s — who also moved from France to England and took time to adapt to the Premier League. While Odobert has made only around 30 appearances for Spurs so far, he has already showcased flashes of brilliance that hint at a bright future.
Described as “phenomenal” by one analyst, Odobert has scored three times for Tottenham, including two vital goals during their Europa League-winning campaign. His composure in big moments and natural attacking instincts have drawn comparisons to Mbeumo, particularly in how both players gradually found their rhythm in English football after an initial adjustment period.
If history repeats itself, patience could once again pay off. Just as Brentford reaped the rewards of sticking with Mbeumo through his early challenges, Tottenham could see Odobert blossom into a top-tier winger under Frank’s mentorship.
At his age, the Frenchman possesses plenty of time to refine his game and fulfil his potential. With Frank’s proven ability to develop attackers and foster confidence in young talents, Odobert could evolve into the kind of difference-maker Spurs need to maintain their upward trajectory in both Europe and the Premier League.
Should he reach anything close to the level Mbeumo achieved under Frank, it would be a masterstroke of recruitment — one that not only validates Tottenham’s long-term vision but also strengthens their position as one of England’s most exciting and progressive clubs.
In the end, Thomas Frank’s Tottenham project is still in its early stages, but with players like Kudus, Johnson, and Odobert at his disposal, the foundations for sustained success are already taking shape. If the Dane can once again work his magic, Spurs fans could be witnessing the birth of a new attacking era at the club — one built on talent, development, and ambition.