Give Me Ho-Hope – Brann New Start

Lifelong Spurs fan Phoebe Music knows it’s the hope that kills, but remains excited for their new season.

Head coach: 35-year-old Martin Ho joined from Norwegian side Brann, who finished second in the league, qualifying for the Champions League first qualification round. Ho previously had a variety of roles at Man United (who Brann face next in the UWCL), Liverpool and Everton.

New signings: Toko Koga (Defender, from Feyenoord) – Japan. Departures: Rosella Ayane, Becky Spencer, Hayley Raso.

Outlook: Tottenham begin the 2025/26 WSL League season with a new head coach, hoping to prove a point after a disappointing season last year that saw the departure of manager Robert Vilahamn. With the squad barely changed over the summer it will be interesting to see what Martin Ho can do to make positive change and help secure a better finish in this campaign.

Bethany England returns as club captain and will likely be central to Tottenham’s ambitions once again. A proven goal scorer, she netted an impressive eight goals for the club last season, often delivering in high-pressure moments. Her experience, leadership and clinical finishing will be vital as the team look for consistency and an improved league position.

After a lengthy spell on the sidelines, Kit Graham returns to the team following an ACL injury. The comeback of the creative midfielder could prove crucial in helping the link-up play between the midfield and forward line, and both these players are likely key to Spurs’ attacking identity this season.

Jess Naz will be another important figure up front. She’s known for her pace and showed flashes of brilliance last season, which saw her called up for the Lionesses’ Nations League campaign. She will be hoping to add more consistency to her game while aiming to cement her place in the starting line-up.

The club’s only signing this season is 19-year-old Japan international Toko Koga, who has agreed a deal that will run until June 2029. With 19 caps to her name so far, the young defender has impressed for both club and country and it will be interesting to see what she brings to Tottenham’s back line. (Ed: Koga looks very calm and composed, way beyond her age).

Ella Morris had a standout season which earned her a first senior Lionesses call-up in May, though she was forced to withdraw from the squad after suffering an ACL injury in training. The young dynamic player impressed with her energy, composure and attacking intent and her absence will certainly be noticed during her recovery.

In pre-season interviews, new head coach Martin Ho talked about allowing individuals to shine and seems optimistic about a future with ambition and drive aligned. He will be looking to raise confidence within the team while offering exciting football for the fans.

Will finish: Mid-table. A 4-3 pre-season victory over Arsenal might not be indicative of things to come, but still offers a positive start to the campaign. Hopefully Spurs can improve on their position from last year and climb to mid-table.