Tottenham tried to push statement that could've changed Harry Kane's career
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Speaking on the High Performance Podcast, Pochettino's former assistant Jesús Pérez revealed how a tense behind-the-scenes moment during the summer of 2014 ultimately proved pivotal in Kane's rise to becoming one of the world's elite strikers.
Tottenham's failed Danny Welbeck pursuit
During the 2014 transfer window, Spurs were actively searching for a new striker and had set their sights on Manchester United forward Danny Welbeck.However, Tottenham were beaten to his signature by north London rivals Arsenal, who secured the England international in a £16 million deal.
At the time, Kane was just 20 years old and viewed largely as a squad option behind Roberto Soldado and Emmanuel Adebayor.
Pérez claims that had Welbeck joined Tottenham, Kane would almost certainly have been moved on.
The statement that never was
Following Welbeck's move to Arsenal, Tottenham executives reportedly suggested that Pochettino issue a public statement claiming he was satisfied with his existing attacking options - a move designed to save face after missing out on their top target.But Pochettino refused.
It was key in that moment the way Mauricio protected Harry.According to Pérez, such a message could have unsettled Kane at a critical stage of his development.
It was public that Welbeck could come and join the team therefore Harry would like to go.
But once Welbeck signed for Arsenal, the club suggested that Mauricio should do a statement saying, "I am happy with the three strikers."
Mauricio said, "That is not necessary for me to say. If I say that then I am giving the impression to Harry that I really wanted another one to come and not him."
Protecting a young talent
Pérez stressed that from the outset, Pochettino was determined to give Kane the time and confidence needed to succeed.From day one I was very happy to Harry to stay with us and to take time to succeed.
That statement never came out. It was super important to protect Harry and to give the feel of "I really trust you."
It was not up to Mauricio to say that. There are those things in management that nobody sees but define the career of a player.
Pressure avoided, history made
When asked whether Kane would have faced greater pressure had the statement been released, Pérez was unequivocal.Yeah, easily. It looks like the statement was to protect ourselves [and say] "We are happy with these guys."Pochettino himself later added that he felt no need to engage in public messaging to appease critics.
But why are you taking a statement? It is probably because you were after another one.
I was happy with those three. I didn't need to make statements because I'm not bothered what people think.
A defining moment for Harry Kane
Kane went on to enjoy a remarkable breakthrough season shortly after, cementing his place as Tottenham's first-choice striker and eventually becoming the club's all-time leading goalscorer.As Pérez suggests, a single press statement - had it been released - might have planted doubts at exactly the wrong time.
Instead, quiet trust and internal belief helped shape one of English football's greatest modern careers.
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