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Bryan Mbeumo vs. Antoine Semenyo: Who Is the Best Fit for Tottenham?



With Thomas Frank taking charge at Spurs, the club is actively exploring attacking reinforcements. Two names linked with a move are Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford) and Antoine Semenyo (Bournemouth)—both dynamic forwards with Premier League experience. But which player would be the better fit for Tottenham’s system? Let’s break it down.


1️⃣ Attacking Output & Goal Contributions


Player

Goals (2024/25)

Assists (2024/25)

Expected Goals (xG)

Expected Assists (xA)

Bryan Mbeumo

20

7

16.8

9.26

Antoine Semenyo

13

7

11.5

6.8


🔹 Mbeumo edges Semenyo in goal-scoring, netting 20 goals last season—only three players scored more in the league.


🔹 His expected assists (xA) of 9.26 suggests he should have registered more assists, highlighting his chance creation ability.


🔹 Semenyo, while effective, has a lower xG and xA, indicating he’s less involved in direct goal contributions.



2️⃣ Playing Style & Tactical Fit


Attribute

Bryan Mbeumo

Antoine Semenyo

Preferred Position

RW / CF

RW / LW / CF

Dribbling Ability

Strong

Explosive

Pace

36.63 km/h (4th fastest in PL)

35.9 km/h

Pressing & Work Rate

High

High

Physicality

Agile

Powerful


🔹 Mbeumo thrives in structured attacking systems, excelling in wide areas and central roles. His ability to cut inside and create makes him a versatile attacking threat.


🔹 Semenyo is more direct, using his explosive pace and physicality to drive at defenders. He’s better suited to counter-attacking football.


🔹 Both players press aggressively, but Mbeumo’s work rate and tactical discipline make him a better fit for Frank’s system.



3️⃣ Defensive Contribution & Pressing


Player

Pressing Actions (per 90)

Tackles Won

Ball Recoveries

Bryan Mbeumo

19.2

1.8

5.6

Antoine Semenyo

15.7

1.4

4.9


🔹 Mbeumo ranks among the hardest-working attackers, covering more distance and attempting more sprints than most players.


🔹 His pressing intensity (19.2 actions per 90) makes him a perfect fit for Frank’s high-energy system.


🔹 Semenyo is less active defensively, meaning Spurs would need to adjust their pressing structure if he were signed.



4️⃣ Market Value & Transfer Feasibility



Player

Estimated Value

Contract Length

Interest from Other Clubs

Bryan Mbeumo

£60m+

2 years left

Man Utd, Spurs

Antoine Semenyo

£65m

3 years left

Man Utd, Liverpool, Spurs


🔹 Mbeumo’s price tag is slightly lower, but Brentford won’t sell cheaply given his importance.


🔹 Semenyo’s valuation is high, and Bournemouth may demand a premium due to his contract length.


🔹 Both players are attracting interest, meaning Spurs must act fast if they want to secure either signing.



Final Verdict: Who Should Spurs Sign?



✅ Bryan Mbeumo is the better tactical fit for Thomas Frank’s system. His goal contributions, pressing intensity, and versatility make him an ideal signing.


✅ Antoine Semenyo offers raw pace and physicality, but his direct style suits counter-attacking teams more than Spurs’ structured approach.


✅ Mbeumo’s familiarity with Frank’s methods gives him an advantage—he could slot into the system seamlessly.


If Spurs want a high-energy, creative forward who can press, score, and assist, Mbeumo is the standout choice. But if they need a powerful, direct attacker, Semenyo could be an alternative.











Thomas Frank’s Backroom Staff: A Tactical and Analytical Overhaul at Tottenham


Justin Cochrane | Joe Newton | Chris Haslam
Justin Cochrane | Joe Newton | Chris Haslam

With Thomas Frank poised to take over as Tottenham’s new head coach, his backroom staff will play a crucial role in shaping the club’s future. Frank is bringing Justin Cochrane, Chris Haslam, and Joe Newton from Brentford, each offering specialised expertise that could significantly impact Spurs’ playing style, fitness levels, and data-driven decision-making.


Justin Cochrane – Assistant Coach & Player Development Specialist


Cochrane is regarded as one of the most promising coaches in English football, having built a strong reputation in youth development and tactical coaching. His journey includes:


  • Spurs Academy (2009-2018) – Developed young talents like Oliver Skipp, Kyle Walker-Peters, and Noni Madueke.

  • England Youth Setup (2018-2021) – Coached the U15, U16, and U17 teams, refining England’s next generation.

  • Manchester United Academy (2021-2022) – Served as Head of Player Development, focusing on technical growth.

  • Brentford (2022-2025) – Worked closely with Frank, helping develop attacking players like Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa.


Cochrane’s attention to detail and tactical awareness make him an ideal assistant for Frank. His ability to nurture young talent aligns with Spurs’ long-term vision, ensuring academy graduates integrate seamlessly into the first team.


Chris Haslam – Head of Athletic Performance


Haslam has been a key figure in Brentford’s rise, overseeing fitness, conditioning, and injury prevention. His expertise includes:


  • Over a decade in athletic performance – Worked across multiple roles, including strength & conditioning.

  • Experience with the Danish national team – Provided liaison duties and performance insights.

  • Data-driven approach – Uses sports science and analytics to optimise player fitness and recovery.


At Spurs, Haslam will be tasked with enhancing physical endurance, ensuring players can maintain Frank’s high-intensity pressing system. His ability to reduce injury risks will be vital, given Spurs’ struggles with fitness consistency in recent seasons.


Joe Newton – First-Team Analyst & Data Specialist


Newton’s role at Brentford was instrumental in their transition from the Championship to a stable Premier League side. His expertise includes:


  • Advanced data analytics – Helps identify tactical trends and opposition weaknesses.

  • Performance reporting – Provides detailed breakdowns of player efficiency and match dynamics.

  • Strategic planning – Assists in match preparation and in-game adjustments.


Newton’s arrival signals a shift towards a more analytical approach at Spurs, ensuring data-driven decision-making plays a central role in Frank’s tactical setup.



What This Means for Tottenham


Frank’s backroom staff brings a blend of tactical intelligence, physical conditioning, and analytical precision. Their collective experience suggests Spurs will focus on:


✅ Youth development – Cochrane’s expertise will help integrate academy players.


✅ High-intensity football – Haslam’s conditioning work will support Frank’s pressing system.


✅ Data-driven tactics – Newton’s analysis will refine match strategies.


With Matt Wells and Rob Burch remaining at the club, Spurs will have a mix of continuity and fresh ideas, setting the stage for a structured, long-term project under Frank.


This backroom team could be one of the most well-rounded setups Spurs have had in years—but how quickly they implement their philosophy will be key. ⚽











🥇 UEFA A Licence – Coaching at the Highest Level



The UEFA A Licence is a gold standard coaching qualification. It prepares experienced coaches to operate in professional environments — whether that's at elite youth level, in senior men’s or women’s football, or at the very top of the non-league pyramid.


This course is about developing a footballing architect — someone who can build a complete playing model, lead performance programmes, and take full control of training, tactics, and culture across an entire squad.


"The UEFA A Licence isn’t about drills or exercises — it’s about designing a footballing identity."

📚 Course Summary at a Glance


  • 🧑‍🏫 Delivered through in-person blocks, online learning, mentoring, and in-situ club visits

  • 🧠 Deep focus on match analysis, team performance, and elite decision-making

  • 🕐 Approx. 180–200 hours of guided learning

  • ⚽ Coaches are assessed in live environments, with full teams

  • 🎓 Completion opens the door to UEFA Pro Licence and top-level jobs


🔍 Core Focus Areas of the UEFA A Licence


🎯 Developing and Managing a Full Team Strategy


At this level, you’re no longer just coaching — you're creating a style of play:


  • Construct a full team playing philosophy across all game phases

  • Integrate strategy with player roles, formations, and systems

  • Make real-time adjustments based on match demands


“The best coaches don’t react — they anticipate.”

⚙️ Tactical Periodisation & Performance Coaching


You’ll learn how to plan for performance over weeks and months, not just one game:


  • Periodise training blocks across the season

  • Balance physical and tactical loads

  • Manage recovery, performance peaks, and long-term development


📅 This is the level where season planning becomes central to your role.


🗣️ Leading High-Performing Teams


The UEFA A Licence sharpens your leadership tools:


  • Master high-level communication, feedback, and motivation

  • Navigate conflict, performance dips, and external pressure

  • Build a winning environment and culture within your squad


“At this level, players don’t just need a coach. They need a leader.”

📽️ Game Analysis, Scouting & Opposition Planning


Develop the ability to analyse and counter like a pro:


  • Use video, data, and observation to break down opposition

  • Identify patterns, threats, and opportunities pre-match

  • Adjust your strategy based on specific opponents


🧠 Scouting and match previews are no longer ‘add-ons’ — they’re daily tools.


🧬 Working with Units, Specialists, and Staff


The UEFA A Coach is a manager of people and processes:


  • Lead multi-disciplinary teams: physios, analysts, assistants

  • Deliver sessions that link units: defence, midfield, and attack

  • Delegate, manage staff workflow, and run coaching departments


“The modern coach doesn't work alone — they orchestrate a team behind the team.”

📝 Assessments and Expectations


This isn’t a badge you collect. You earn it by demonstrating sustained excellence:


  • 🏟️ Assessed during full training sessions and matchdays with your team

  • 🎥 Submit game footage and coaching reflections

  • 📈 Measured on impact, leadership, tactical insight, and delivery

  • 🤝 Strong mentor support and peer review throughout the course


🌍 Why UEFA A Matters


The UEFA A Licence proves that you can:


✅ Lead senior and elite youth teams

✅ Build a clear playing identity and deliver it week in, week out

✅ Manage tactical detail across opposition, fixtures, and formats

✅ Operate in highly competitive environments

✅ Drive results, development, and performance


This badge positions you as a top-level operator, ready to step into professional football with full confidence.


⚽ Experience That’s Been There, Done That


Steve Halls is an FA qualified football coach offering consultancy, talent identification, mentoring and player representation in Cheshunt and the surrounding areas. In today’s connected world, Steve can offer his services to players, clubs, and organisations across the globe. Whether you're grassroots or elite, UK-based or international, you’ll benefit from Steve’s insight, tactical knowledge, and ability to build pathways that truly develop talent.











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