A season of managerial shifts, stadium debuts, and controversial VAR decisions
In short: The 2019–20 season was a period of immense transition for Tottenham Hotspur. Between the opening of their new stadium and the global disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic, the club navigated coaching changes and intense scrutiny over officiating technology.
The campaign was marked by significant structural changes, representing the club's 28th season in the Premier League and 42nd consecutive year in the top flight of English football. This season also served as the first full year of competition at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, following a period where the club had been playing most matches at Wembley Stadium.
Early struggles defined the first half of the season. After winning only three of their initial 12 league matches and suffering an EFL Cup exit to Colchester United, the club underwent a managerial change. Mauricio Pochettino was dismissed on 19 November 2019, with José Mourinho appointed as his successor the very next day.
The season was further complicated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced the Premier League to postpone matches in March. Following joint statements from the Premier League and UEFA, postponements were extended until 30 April and eventually indefinitely. Competitive play finally resumed on 19 June, starting with a 1–1 draw against Manchester United, featuring a goal from Steven Bergwijn.
On the pitch, the team faced unprecedented scrutiny regarding Video Assistant Referee (VAR) decisions. This included a controversial disallowed goal by Harry Kane against Sheffield United due to a handball called against Lucas Moura, and a missed penalty decision involving Joshua King and Kane against Bournemouth, which the Premier League later admitted was incorrect. Statistically, the club recorded the lowest number of shots since Opta began tracking data in 1997–98.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: 2019–20 Tottenham Hotspur F.C. season
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