This Belgian striker is great player, but wrong fit for Tottenham
Tottenham is rumored to be interested in French striker Michy Batshuayi to strengthen their striking options
No rationale Tottenham fan can question whether or not the club needs to add a striker in the January transfer window. Mauricio Pochettino cannot afford to go the rest of the season with only one recognized striker in Harry Kane. With that being said, Marseille front man Michy Batshuayi is the wrong striker for Spurs to pursue.
Tottenham is rumored to be negotiating with Marseille over a potential January deal for the prolific 22-year-old forward. In some ways, adding Batshuayi is a logical move for Tottenham. He’s been lighting up Ligue 1 this year with 11 goals in 19 appearances. On the offensive end of the pitch, he’s everything you want in a striker. He’s a terrific finisher with both his head and feet and his movement is a nightmare for opposing back lines. Unfortunately for the Belgian number nine, Pochettino expects contributions on both ends of the pitch.
It’s Batshuayi’s lack of defensive prowess that makes him a poor fit for Tottenham. As good as he is on the offensive end, he’s almost invisible when his side doesn’t have the ball. Those deficiencies are infinitely correctable, but would take time for Pochettino to drill the young striker. Spurs don’t have time to bring a player’s defensive game along while they’re pushing for Champions League qualification.
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Everyone applauds Harry Kane’s goal scoring record for Tottenham to the point that many overlook his hard work winning possession back. On the rare occasions that he gives the ball away he works tirelessly to win it back. It’s this quality that allows him to be effective even when he isn’t finding the back of the net.
His pressing energy also sets the tone for the rest of his Tottenham teammates. No one dares not press the ball when they see their star striker closing down the opposing goalkeeper with such determination.
If Batshuayi came to Tottenham, the side would miss that pressing motivation when he is on the pitch. It could literally change the entire tempo of the way Spurs like to play. Tottenham simply can’t afford to purchase a striker who might not be committed to Pochettino’s high press. It could undermine the entire culture of the club.
Instead, Spurs need to look for a striker who can contribute in all phases of the game. They shouldn’t consider for a moment buying a striker who might not press with high intensity. For me, that disqualifies Michy Batshuayi from consideration. He’s an exceptional offensive talent but his lack of defensive contribution makes him a horrible fit for this Tottenham squad.