Tottenham Hotspur supporters may find themselves trading the dreary North London weather for the sunny skies of Australia next summer. There is a possibility of a London derby against Chelsea being scheduled as part of Spurs’ pre-season plans. This information comes from former club chief executive Keith Wyness, who now offers his expertise to elite clubs through a football consultancy. He estimates that Spurs could earn up to £5 million from their upcoming warm-up matches.
A Growing Trend for Premier League Clubs
Earlier this season, Thomas Frank’s team played their first north London clash outside the UK, facing Arsenal in Asia shortly after he took over as manager. This event was a significant challenge for Frank, who stepped in to replace Ange Postecoglou amid high expectations. Despite a rocky start on the pitch, the club’s off-field ambitions are developing positively.
Australia presents a promising opportunity for Premier League teams looking to expand their global reach. Wyness highlights the sizeable British expatriate community and a robust Spurs fan base in Australia as key factors that would ensure a full stadium. A match between Chelsea and Tottenham in Sydney is likely to sell out quickly, strengthening the connection with local fans.
Financial and Logistical Considerations
For clubs like Spurs, appearance fees typically range from £3 million to £5 million, making such a trip financially viable. In addition to the excitement of a headline match, there are discussions about potentially including a stopover in Asia or the Middle East to maximize commercial exposure and engage more fans across important markets.
Local authorities are supportive of these plans, with Sydney FC and possibly a fourth club already in the mix under New South Wales’ tourism initiative. With government backing assisting in smooth logistics, Spurs can focus on what truly matters—preparing the squad for the upcoming season.
The Current State of Spurs
Back in North London, Spurs management is thoroughly reviewing the club’s finances under Daniel Levy’s nearly 25-year leadership. This move, described as procedural rather than punitive, comes after Levy stepped down as executive chairman in September. Carlos Raphael Moersen is rumored to be the next director of football operations.
With increasing pressure on Frank to improve results, clarity at the board level could help stabilize the situation. After all, nothing is worse than experiencing a tough pre-season tour while trying to explain strategy to the board, especially if you are being chased by a kangaroo.
Conclusion
Tottenham Hotspur’s potential pre-season tour to Australia presents an exciting opportunity for the club to connect with fans, boost finances, and prepare for the rigors of a new campaign. Stay tuned for updates on this thrilling prospect as plans unfold.