5 Ways Mohammed Kudus Can Shine for Tottenham vs. Manchester City

• The Nima-born footballer has hit the ground running, following his excellent performance against Burnley
• Mohammed Kudus faces his biggest domestic test yet in the upcoming Manchester City vs. Tottenham EPL showdown
• Kudus and Haaland are poised to battle for the spotlight, as Thomas Frank prepares to go toe-to-toe with Guardiola in a tactical showdown

Tottenham Hotspur’s Premier League clash with Manchester City on Saturday, August 23, promises fireworks, and one name that could tilt the scales is Mohammed Kudus.

The Ghanaian midfielder has hit the ground running at Spurs, registering two assists in his Premier League debut during a dominant 3-0 win over Burnley.

After making headlines in the UEFA Super Cup clash against Paris Saint-Germain, Tottenham’s thrilling 2-2 draw that ended in a narrow penalty loss, Kudus is now gearing up for what will arguably be his biggest domestic test yet against Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City.

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Here's how the former West Ham star can be the difference-maker at Etihad this weekend.

1. Breaking City’s midfield press

One of Mohammed Kudus' biggest strengths is his ability to glide past defenders in tight spaces. City’s high-pressing midfield, now anchored by Tijjani Reijnders and Nico Gonzalez, thrives on suffocating the opposition.

But Kudus, who is a good dribbler, is no ordinary ball-carrier. His low centre of gravity, agility, and fearless approach could help Spurs beat the press and drive forward, creating space for the likes of Richarlison and Brennan Johnson to exploit.

2. Kudus' killer through balls

Kudus showed his creative flair in his Premier League debut, notching up two clever assists to help Richarlison grab a fantastic brace against Burnley. The Ghanaian's vision and improved decision-making in the final third make him a potent playmaker.

Against Manchester City’s usually tight defence, that killer final pass could be the difference. Kudus’s ability to thread precise through balls could unlock scoring chances for Tottenham's attackers even against defenders like Ruben Dias and John Stones.

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3. Tactical versatility for Thomas Frank

One of Kudus’s underrated qualities is his adaptability. According to Spurs Web, he can play as a No. 10, on either wing, or even deeper in midfield if needed. This allows Thomas Frank to switch formations mid-game, from a 4-2-3-1 to a more compact 4-3-3, depending on how City approach the contest.

However, Frank is expected to deploy Kudus in his usual right-wing position, but the ex-Ajax man would fancy a free role to exploit the half-spaces between City’s midfield and backline, an area where Guardiola’s team has shown rare vulnerability, especially from last season.

4. Winning set-pieces in dangerous areas

According to Flashscore, Manchester City exploded to the start of the new season, spanking Wolves 4-0 on the road, meaning Tottenham will need every edge they can get, and set-pieces could be a real opportunity.

During transition plays, Kudus’ quick turns and bursts often force defenders into conceding set-pieces in key areas, and Spurs might just need to rely on this tactic to pick something from the Etihad.

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5. Kudus' big-game edge

Despite only recently joining Spurs, Kudus has already shown he’s built for the big stage. He performed well against Arsenal during pre-season and put up a good show against PSG in the Super Cup. But Tottenham conceded twice after the Nima-born talent was substituted.

Kudus doesn’t shy away from the spotlight. He seems to thrive in it, something Tottenham fans will be counting on when the lights shine brightest this Saturday.

Kudus outshines Nuno Mendes

YEN.com.gh previously reported that Mohammed Kudus delivered a standout performance in the 2025 UEFA Super Cup, where he consistently got the better of Paris Saint-Germain’s Nuno Mendes.

The Ghanaian midfielder showcased a blend of exceptional skill, explosive pace, and raw physicality—especially in his one-on-one battles with the Portuguese full-back.

Proofreading by Omoleye Omoruyi, copy editor at YEN.com.gh.

Source: YEN.com.gh