Mauricio Pochettino Reveals How He Helped Harry Kane Fix 'Bad Habits' at Tottenham
Mauricio Pochettino has shared insight into a defining chapter of his time at Tottenham Hotspur, detailing how Harry Kane transformed his career after addressing early “bad habits.”
Mauricio Pochettino explains how honest talks and discipline changes helped Harry Kane evolve from a fringe Tottenham player into a world-class striker.
When the Argentine coach arrived in North London in 2014, Kane was not yet the focal point of the squad. The striker was positioned behind multiple attacking options and struggling to secure a consistent role. Despite recognizing his determination, Pochettino and his staff believed improvements were needed beyond natural ability.
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The manager identified that Kane’s approach away from matches—particularly in training routines and lifestyle—was limiting his progression. A structured and demanding regimen was introduced, alongside guidance aimed at refining his professionalism. Those changes would later contribute to Kane becoming the club’s all-time leading scorer.
Speaking on the Stick to Football podcast, Pochettino reflected on their early interactions. He explained that Kane’s willingness to listen played a major role in his development. The forward responded positively to feedback, making adjustments to his preparation, diet, and overall habits.
Pochettino noted that success did not arrive instantly. Instead, it required a consistent shift in mindset and daily discipline. Kane’s intelligence, he suggested, allowed him to embrace constructive criticism and turn it into tangible improvement on the pitch.
Beyond Kane’s evolution, the coach also spoke about his enduring attachment to Tottenham and English football. Now preparing to manage the United States men's national soccer team at the 2026 World Cup, he emphasized how closely his philosophy aligns with the Premier League environment.
Pochettino described Tottenham as a deeply meaningful part of both his professional and personal journey, highlighting the club’s stature and the competitive level they reached during his tenure. He also hinted at the possibility of returning to England in the future.
While the manager focuses on international responsibilities, Kane continues to excel abroad with Bayern Munich. The striker has maintained an exceptional scoring record while securing consecutive Bundesliga titles. For now, both figures remain committed to achieving success on the biggest stages in football.
