The day we all knew was coming at Tottenham Hotspur
By Gary Pearson
The day we all knew was coming occurred yesterday, as Victor Wanyama signed a three-year deal with MLS club Montreal Impact.
Wanyama arrived from Southampton in 2016 and made an almost immediate impact in north London. At the peak of his power with Spurs, Wanyama was one of the Premier League’s top defensive midfielders. He was the fulcrum at the heart of Mauricio Pochettino‘s industrious and effective midfield.
Blessed with incredible tenacity, a tireless engine and an uncanny ability to hunt down opposing attackers, Wanyama was one of Spurs’ most influential assets. I think I can speak for everyone associated with Tottenham when thanking the Kenyan for his loyal service. The 28-year-old made 97 appearances for the Lilywhites, most of which occurred between 2016 and 2018.
Over two years ago, I wrote a piece about the imperious midfielder and how highly appreciated he was at the time. Unfortunately a rash of injuries stunted Wanyama’s progress, which he was never truly able to overcome.
Wanyama looks forward to the next chapter of his career in Montreal, where he will be playing under the coaching tutelage of the legendary Thierry Henry. Even though Henry ascended to unparalleled heights with bitter rivals Arsenal, nobody can deny the former player’s ability. Wanyama still has many good years to impact Montreal’s first team at a high level, and will revel in the wake of the new opportunity for regular match action.
This opportunity represents for Wanyama a chance for redemption, an opportunity to revive a sputtering career. Wanyama has made only 33 appearances for Tottenham since the start of 2017, highlighting just how difficult a time he’s endured in north London in recent memory.
Spurs supporters will most fondly remember the Kenyan’s wonder strike from another area code against Liverpool that resembled more a missile than a football. I’ll leave you with that lasting memory of a player who is adored by Tottenham faithful across the globe.
Best of luck with your new challenge, Victor.