Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi may have found the missing piece of his midfield just in time for Saturday’s crucial London derby against Chelsea.
James Maddison delivered a superb performance in Tottenham’s 3-1 victory over Coventry City on Monday, scoring a brilliant opening goal and reminding everyone of his quality.
The 29-year-old midfielder made his first Premier League start of the season after spending almost 18 months recovering from an ACL injury suffered in the summer of 2025. His return to the starting lineup immediately made a difference, with Maddison creating opportunities, controlling possession and driving Spurs forward.
His goal came within the opening 15 minutes. After receiving a pass from Mohammed Kudus, Maddison expertly curled the ball into the top-left corner, leaving goalkeeper Carl Rushworth with little chance.
Beyond his goal, the England international impressed with his creativity and ability to find spaces between the opposition’s defensive lines. He also completed more final-third passes and line-breaking passes than any other Tottenham outfield player outside the defensive line.
Maddison’s influence could prove crucial as Spurs prepare to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. Tottenham have lost their last six meetings with their London rivals, and De Zerbi will be desperate to end that disappointing run.
Statistics also highlight Maddison’s importance. Since joining Spurs from Leicester City in 2023 for around £40 million, Tottenham have won 25 of the 48 matches he has played, recording a win rate of 52.1%. Their results without him have been considerably less impressive.
Speaking after the Coventry victory, Maddison revealed that he had discussed returning to the starting lineup with De Zerbi and felt ready to demonstrate what Tottenham had missed during his lengthy absence.
He also explained that operating in the spaces between the opposition’s defensive lines is where he feels most effective.
With his confidence growing and his creativity returning, Maddison could become one of Tottenham’s most important players heading into the Chelsea showdown.
The big question now is whether De Zerbi will trust Maddison to lead Spurs’ midfield again when they travel to Stamford Bridge.
