Vicario reveals Tottenham’s tactical focus — and what went wrong
Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario has offered a candid insight into his team’s defensive approach against Liverpool, admitting that Spurs’ match plan failed to account for the true source of danger on the pitch.
Speaking after the game, Vicario revealed that Tottenham had deliberately instructed their defenders to concentrate heavily on Liverpool forward Hugo Ekitiké, believing him to be the Reds’ primary attacking threat. However, that tactical decision inadvertently left space elsewhere — space that Ryan Gravenberch exploited to devastating effect.
“I instructed my defenders to focus on Ekitiké, thinking he was their best player,” Vicario said. “But that destroyed us. The real problem came from Gravenberch.”
The admission has sparked widespread discussion among analysts and fans alike, highlighting how Liverpool’s evolving midfield structure can punish teams that misread their threats.
Gravenberch’s influence flew under the radar
Ryan Gravenberch’s performance against Tottenham may not have grabbed headlines immediately, but Vicario’s comments underline just how impactful the Dutch midfielder was throughout the contest.
Operating between Tottenham’s midfield and defensive lines, Gravenberch repeatedly found pockets of space, progressed the ball through pressure, and disrupted Spurs’ defensive shape. His movement forced defenders out of position and created overloads that Liverpool exploited during key moments.
For some, Vicario’s admission confirmed what they had already observed: Gravenberch is becoming one of Liverpool’s most important midfielders in big games.
What this means going forward
As Liverpool continue their campaign, performances like this strengthen the case for Gravenberch as a regular starter. His versatility allows Slot to adjust tactical setups without sacrificing balance — a valuable asset as fixtures pile up.
Opposition teams will now be forced to rethink their approach. Focusing solely on Liverpool’s forwards may no longer be enough, especially if midfielders like Gravenberch continue to exploit space with intelligence and confidence.
A compliment that carries weight
Praise from teammates is expected. Praise from opponents — especially one as honest as Vicario — carries far more weight.
Tottenham may have left Anfield frustrated, but Vicario’s words offer a revealing glimpse into why Liverpool proved so difficult to contain.
Gravenberch may not always command headlines, but on this occasion, he was the difference — and Tottenham felt it.