Premier League Worst XI: Spurs flop earns brutal comparison as Liverpool batter Postecoglou’s boys
Premier League Worst XI: Spurs Flop Earns Brutal Comparison as Liverpool Batter Postecoglou’s Boys
As the 2024/25 Premier League season barrels toward its conclusion, with title races heating up and relegation battles intensifying, a few unfortunate names have become synonymous with disappointment. While stars like Phil Foden, Declan Rice, and Mohamed Salah shine brightly, there are players whose seasons have been defined by mediocrity—or outright failure. With a stinging 4-0 defeat to Liverpool fresh in memory, Tottenham Hotspur’s woes under Ange Postecoglou have worsened, and one of their own now headlines the Premier League Worst XI.
Goalkeeper – André Onana (Manchester United)
Despite flashes of brilliance, Onana’s inconsistency has cost United dearly in tight games. Flapping at crosses, poor positioning, and questionable distribution have put Erik ten Hag’s side under immense pressure throughout the campaign.
Right-Back – Emerson Royal (Tottenham Hotspur)
Royal was completely exposed during Spurs’ drubbing at Anfield. Time and again, he failed to track back, leaving acres of space for Liverpool’s wide men to exploit. Criticized for his lack of awareness and poor decision-making, Royal epitomizes Tottenham’s defensive frailty this season.
Centre-Back – Harry Maguire (Manchester United)
Though he’s improved marginally, Maguire remains a symbol of United’s chaotic defending. His lack of pace and questionable leadership continue to invite scrutiny.
Centre-Back – Calvin Bassey (Fulham)
Bassey has been caught out multiple times this season, with positioning errors and misjudged tackles costing Fulham valuable points.
Left-Back – Sergio Reguilón (Brentford, on loan from Spurs)
The Spaniard has struggled to adapt once again, providing little going forward and even less stability in defense. His loan spell has done little to restore confidence in his abilities.
Midfield – Donny van de Beek (Eintracht Frankfurt, on loan from Manchester United)
Once seen as a rising star, Van de Beek’s continued disappearance—even on loan—raises questions. He’s failed to make an impact anywhere he goes.
Midfield – João Palhinha (Fulham)
While once considered a transfer target for elite clubs, Palhinha’s performances this season have been erratic. Reckless challenges and poor passing have dented his reputation.
Attacking Midfield – Giovani Lo Celso (Tottenham Hotspur)
Lo Celso earns a brutal comparison to a ghost—often invisible on the pitch, devoid of creativity, and lacking any real influence on the game. Fans have voiced their frustrations, especially after the Liverpool loss, calling his performance “non-existent.”
Right Wing – Antony (Manchester United)
Antony continues to frustrate with endless stepovers and little end product. The £85 million price tag feels heavier with every passing match, and he’s now firmly among the league’s worst underperformers.
Left Wing – Mykhailo Mudryk (Chelsea)
Despite flashes of potential, Mudryk still plays like a raw talent lacking composure and vision. His decision-making in the final third has undermined Chelsea’s attack repeatedly.
Striker – Richarlison (Tottenham Hotspur)
Richarlison leads the line for the Worst XI, having yet again failed to live up to expectations. His poor movement, lack of goals, and absence of fight during big games have made him a target for critics and fans alike. His anonymity against Liverpool capped another lifeless display.
Manager – Ange Postecoglou (Tottenham Hotspur)
Though praised early in the season for his refreshing tactics, Postecoglou has been tactically exposed in big matches. The loss to Liverpool revealed a team devoid of structure and fight, with fans beginning to question whether his philosophy suits the Premier League’s demands.
While there’s still time for redemption, this Worst XI reflects the brutal nature of England’s top flight—where reputation means nothing and performances speak louder than past glories.