Tottenham Hotspur ushered in the Thomas Frank era with an emphatic 3-0 win over newly-promoted Burnley at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday.
The new manager, who arrived from Brentford in the summer, watched his side deliver a dominant display that combined sharp attacking play with relentless pressing.
For Spurs, it was the ideal start under Frank, setting the tone for a season of high expectations.
The afternoon belonged to Richarlison, who reminded the fans of his quality with a stunning brace.
The Brazilian wasted no time making his mark, opening the scoring in the 10th minute after smart movement in the box allowed him to steer home Mohammed Kudus’ inviting cross.
Kudus, one of Tottenham’s marquee signings, looked lively throughout, instantly forming a promising partnership with the striker.
Their chemistry shone again just after the hour mark. Kudus delivered another clever ball into the area, and Richarlison produced a spectacular acrobatic volley that left the Burnley goalkeeper with no chance.
The finish was greeted by a roar from the home supporters, a clear signal that the forward is ready to shoulder the goalscoring burden this season.
Tottenham’s third came six minutes later, with Brennan Johnson capitalizing on the pressure created by Richarlison’s pressing.
The Brazilian harried Burnley’s midfield into a mistake, sparking a counter-attack that Johnson coolly finished to seal the victory.
Frank’s side looked disciplined and purposeful, blending intensity with flair, hallmarks of the Dane’s coaching philosophy.
Burnley, now managed by Scott Parker, were far from passive despite the scoreline. They ventured forward on several occasions and matched Spurs nearly shot for shot, but their lack of cutting edge in the final third proved costly.
For Tottenham, however, it was a performance full of promise, clinical in attack, energetic in midfield, and organized at the back, an early sign that the Thomas Frank era could be one of both excitement and results.