Tottenham Hotspur find themselves once again entangled in a relegation battle, prompting comparisons with Manchester United’s dramatic turnaround last season. However, former Spurs full-back Alan Hutton has told GOAL that replicating such a transformation in north London appears improbable, stressing that “huge money” would be essential to engineer a significant change in fortunes.

Spurs still battling relegation in Premier League

Despite heavy spending across multiple transfer windows, Tottenham are seeing minimal returns on their investments. A series of underperforming players and recurring fitness issues have contributed to their fall down the Premier League standings.

Manager Ange Postecoglou did guide Tottenham to long-awaited silverware in 2025, when they lifted the Europa League trophy to end a 17-year drought. Yet, that success merely masked deeper issues that continue to plague the club.

After finishing 17th last season, Spurs now face the very real risk of slipping further, potentially into the Championship. Heading into their decisive final-day clash with Everton, their destiny remains in their own hands, though survival is far from guaranteed.

If Roberto De Zerbi manages to steer the team to safety, Tottenham can then look towards rebuilding for the future. Manchester United’s rise from 15th to third within a year, reclaiming a spot in the Champions League, stands as a clear example of what can be achieved with the right structure and momentum.

Can Tottenham match United’s resurgence?

When asked whether Spurs could mount a similar comeback in the 2026–27 season, Hutton, speaking exclusively to GOAL in association with Uudet Kasinot, responded: “From what I've seen this season, I don't see it.”

He continued, “I might have said the same about Manchester United, but they’ve really come together under Michael Carrick’s leadership.”

“It’s going to be an interesting summer for Tottenham. Injuries have seriously disrupted them, and they’ve struggled at home throughout the campaign. Honestly, I don’t see them breaking into the top four next season.”

Transfer strategy under scrutiny

Since Postecoglou’s departure, Tottenham have gone through three different managers — Thomas Frank, Igor Tudor, and now Roberto De Zerbi. Hutton believes substantial on-field change is now needed if Spurs are to shed their reputation as underachievers and reestablish themselves as genuine top-tier contenders.

While ambition is easy to express, Hutton argues that meaningful progress will demand major financial backing — and that may not be readily available. “Huge money, absolutely huge,” he said when asked about the spending required to turn around Tottenham’s fortunes. “This has been their Achilles heel for years. They’ve invested decent sums but haven’t always made the right choices.”

“They’ve been spending £50–60 million on players who aren’t delivering immediately or reaching expected levels, and that’s hurt them this season. Injuries haven’t helped either, but overall, the squad hasn’t found its rhythm. Whether it’s pressure or mentality, I’m not sure, but two disappointing league finishes in a row speak for themselves. The fans expect much more, so they need a squad capable of meeting those demands.”

Crucial final-day encounter with Everton

Tottenham host Everton in north London on Sunday, sitting just one spot and two points above the relegation zone. With goal difference in their favour, a draw should be enough to secure their Premier League status.

However, a defeat could open the door for West Ham United, who face Leeds, to leapfrog them — leaving Spurs supporters bracing for a tense finish as the club battles to remain in the top flight.