Brennan Johnson’s Crystal Palace Switch: Unpacking His Spurs Struggles

Brennan Johnson completes Crystal Palace move - Why it didn't work out at Spurs
Brennan Johnson completes Crystal Palace move Why it didn't work out at Spurs
<div>
    <p>Last season, Spurs' leading scorer</p>

    <div>
        <p>
            <img 
                alt="Brennan Johnson completes Crystal Palace move - Why it didn't work out at Spurs" 
                src="https://tmssl.akamaized.net//images/foto/galerie/brennan-johnson-tottenham-2025-1747859717-168343.jpg" 
                title="Brennan Johnson completes Crystal Palace move - Why it didn't work out at Spurs" />
        </p>
        <p><span>©IMAGO</span></p>
    </div>

    <p>Crystal Palace has made an early statement in the transfer market by signing winger Brennan Johnson from Tottenham for a fee of €40 million. The 24-year-old Welshman brings Premier League experience and is expected to enhance Palace’s attacking options with his pace and finishing ability. Last season, he was Spurs' highest goal scorer, netting 18 goals across all competitions.</p>

    <br>

    <p>After experiencing an inconsistent period in North London, Johnson's transfer across the capital marks a fresh start and reflects Crystal Palace's confidence in his potential. At just 24 years old, he aligns with the club’s strategy of investing in players at the peak of their careers, and the transfer fee signifies their belief in his ability to perform consistently at the highest level. Notably, Johnson was part of the squad that secured Tottenham's first trophy in 17 years by scoring the winning goal in the Europa League final just six months ago, but he now finds himself surplus to requirements at the club. Let's explore why his time at Tottenham didn’t pan out as hoped.</p>

    <br>

    <h2>Reasons for Brennan Johnson's Struggles at Tottenham</h2>

    <br>

    <p>Johnson’s market value currently stands at €35 million, down from €50 million last December. The challenges for him at Spurs can be notably attributed to the acquisitions of Mohammed Kudus and Xavi Simons, who cost a combined €129 million this summer. Kudus has primarily taken over the right-wing position that Johnson occupied last season, while Simons has intensified competition in attacking roles. Additionally, new manager Thomas Frank has not favored Johnson in the same way as his predecessor, Ange Postecoglou, whose tactics appeared more suited to Johnson’s playing style.</p>

    <br>

    <p>Matthew Hayes, a member of <em>Transfermarkt's</em> social media team and a devoted Spurs supporter, shares his insights on Johnson's shortcomings: “He seems to lack the technical skills expected at a club with Tottenham's ambitions. While he’s exceptionally quick, he struggles to beat defenders in one-on-one situations. His ability to arrive at the back post hasn’t been as advantageous for us this season, especially with the challenges we face down the left flank. With Kudus brought in for a hefty fee, Johnson's chances were already slim before the season kicked off.”</p>

    <br>

    <div>
        <p>Player Comparison</p>

        <div>
            <p>Crystal Palace</p>
            <p>FC Baden 1897</p>
        </div>

        <br>

        <div>
            <p>Right Winger</p>
            <p>Position</p>
            <p>Central Midfield</p>
        </div>

        <br>

        <div>
            <p>Contract until: 30/06/2030</p>
            <p>Contract until: 30/06/2026</p>
        </div>

        <br>

        <p><span>Full Player Comparison</span></p>
    </div>

    <br>

    <p>Johnson will be eager to revitalize his career at Crystal Palace, now managed by the astute Oliver Glasner. He is expected to fill one of the two 'wide 10' roles in the favored 3-4-3 formation. This move positions him in competition with players such as Yéremy Pino and Ismaïla Sarr. Palace currently sits in 10th place in the Premier League, just three points behind fifth-placed Chelsea, and Johnson will also have the opportunity to shine in the Europa Conference League.</p>
</div>