Tottenham Hotspur’s women’s team has just completed its most successful Women’s Super League campaign, securing fifth place with a club-record 33 points. While the achievement marks clear progress under new head coach Martin Ho, history warns that finishing fifth often leads to a subsequent regression. Spurs themselves experienced this in 2022 when they finished fifth only to slump to ninth the following season, and similar patterns have plagued Liverpool and Aston Villa in recent years.
Ho, who arrived last summer from Norwegian side SK Brann after guiding them to a historic Champions League quarter-final, has transformed a side that narrowly avoided relegation in the previous campaign. His impact was immediate: Tottenham won four of their opening five matches, with the lone defeat coming against eventual champions Manchester City. An aggressive pressing system, more fluid attacking play, and a sturdier defensive structure signaled a shift in identity from the fragile team that had conceded heavily a year earlier.
The strong start included statement draws against Arsenal and Manchester United, leaving Spurs level on points with Arsenal in third place entering 2026. However, the second half of the season proved more challenging. A worrying three-match losing streak in the league and an FA Cup quarter-final exit to Chelsea highlighted the need for greater depth and consistency. Despite this, securing fifth represents a significant step forward, especially when compared with last season’s narrow escape from the bottom.
Speaking about the campaign, Ho acknowledged the progress but stressed that finishing fifth alone is not the ambition. 'It’s been positive in numerous aspects, on and off the pitch, but finishing fifth doesn’t win you anything,' he said. 'We want to compete and lift trophies. There is a lot of pride for the players and staff, but still a lot of work to do.' He emphasized that the club wants to be recognized not just among the best in the UK but across Europe, underscoring long-term goals.
The challenge now is to avoid the fifth-place curse. Historically, no team finishing fifth in the WSL has managed to improve or even maintain that position the following season. When asked about this trend, Ho did not shy away: 'We don’t want to be satisfied with fifth. We’re in this position for a reason and we need to embrace that pressure. If we want to be a top team sustainable in domestic and European competitions, we have to go seven levels up from now.' He noted that investment brings expectation and that players must understand the required jump in standards.
To break the cycle, Tottenham have already moved decisively in the transfer market. Ho confirmed that numerous signings have been completed for the summer window, focusing on adding depth, experience, and lowering the squad’s average age. While specific names were not disclosed, the intent is clear: build a roster capable of handling the rigors of competing on multiple fronts and avoid the drop-off that has afflicted other fifth-place finishers.
Improving the team’s defensive solidity and spreading goals across the lineup are key priorities. Last season’s collapse under previous manager Robert Vilahamn, which saw Spurs concede heavily and narrowly avoid the drop, remains a cautionary tale. Ho’s first season has already tightened up the backline, but further reinforcements are needed to ensure consistency against the league’s top sides.
Beyond player recruitment, Ho is also focused on strengthening the club’s infrastructure and internal processes. He believes that creating the right environment and support structures will allow the team to succeed in the long term. 'Away from the pitch, we’ve put in place processes to allow this team to be successful and build momentum,' Ho explained, signaling a holistic approach to sustaining their upward trajectory.
The final-day fixture against Brighton offers a chance to close the season on a high and potentially finish within four points of Manchester United, where Ho previously served as an assistant. A positive result would provide a psychological boost heading into a crucial summer of preparation.
The task ahead is formidable. The WSL is becoming increasingly competitive, with established powers reinforcing their squads. For Tottenham to avoid being a one-season wonder, they must replicate their strong recruitment and continue their tactical evolution. Ho’s long-term contract, signed in March, provides stability and a clear message of faith from the board.
If Tottenham can successfully integrate their new signings and maintain their upward momentum, they could finally break the fifth-place trend. Ho’s pedigree in European competition and his clear vision offer hope that this season’s success is just the beginning. The summer will be pivotal in determining whether Spurs can join the WSL’s elite on a permanent basis.
Based on reporting from BBC Sport.
