A Decade of Dedication: Ben Davies Reflects on His Journey with Tottenham Hotspur

In the midst of an Asian pre-season tour, Ben Davies, now 31, reflects on a decade-long journey with Tottenham Hotspur that has seen him navigate a whirlwind of changes both on and off the pitch. When he first arrived from Swansea City in 2014 as a fresh-faced 21-year-old, the club was in the midst of a rebuilding phase under then-manager Mauricio Pochettino. Fast forward ten years, and Davies remains a cornerstone of the squad, having reinvented himself through various managerial regimes and tactical shifts. Dressed casually in an air-conditioned room away from Japan’s summer heat, he appears unchanged—the same hairstyle and a gentle South Welsh accent that have accompanied him through his career. Yet, around him, Tottenham has undergone a transformation, with four managerial changes and a new stadium redefining the club's landscape. Davies’ adaptability has been nothing short of remarkable. Under Pochettino, he was a traditional full-back, but as the tactical demands evolved with the likes of José Mourinho and Antonio Conte, he transitioned into a third centre-back role. Last season, under Ange Postecoglou, he showcased his versatility as an 'inverted' full-back. Despite his understated nature, Davies acknowledges that there is a perception of being underrated, a sentiment he attributes to his modest self-assessment. “I’ve never been the most physical player in the world,” he admits. “I’ve had to adapt to different managers, different roles.” His ability to grasp tactical instructions reflects his intelligence and commitment, qualities that have not only kept him at the club but have also made him a respected figure within the squad. Beyond his contributions on the field, Davies has played a crucial role in shaping the club's culture, particularly as it integrates younger players like Archie Gray and Lucas Bergvall. He emphasizes the importance of setting standards and leading by example, drawing from his own experiences of being a rookie in a senior dressing room. Remarkably, he can count the times he has been late to team meetings and lunches on one hand, a testament to his professionalism. Reflecting on his early days at Tottenham, Davies recalls the shock of stepping into a high-pressure environment alongside seasoned professionals. The intensity of training, the scrutiny from fans, and the sheer scale of the club were stark contrasts to his time at Swansea. Yet, those challenges fueled his determination to evolve as a player and a person. Throughout his career, Davies has been influenced by stalwarts like Ashley Williams and Michael Dawson, who instilled the values of hard work and self-care. These lessons resonate deeply with him, and he strives to pass them on to the next generation of players. His commitment to personal development is evident in his pursuit of a degree and coaching badges, ensuring he is prepared for life after football. As Tottenham gears up for the new season, Davies remains optimistic. The camaraderie among players has improved, and he feels a renewed sense of purpose under Postecoglou. “The feel of the players and the external feeling around the club has got a lot better,” he notes, acknowledging the positive shift in dynamics and results. The club's summer signings have also contributed to the excitement surrounding Tottenham’s future. In the locker room, the relationship between Davies and team captain Son Heung-min shines through. Son, who stands as an icon of the club, has a personal connection to Davies, serving as the godfather to his son. Their bond transcends the professional, with Davies describing Son as a "family member" and someone he can trust for advice. Their friendship exemplifies the supportive environment Davies aims to cultivate among younger players. As he looks back on a decade filled with memories, Davies is not one to dwell on individual accolades. Instead, he focuses on the shared experiences and the collective journey of the teams he has been part of. His humility is a refreshing reminder of the virtues that underpin success in a sport that often glorifies individual achievements. With ambition still burning bright, Davies’s vision for the future is clear. “We’re building towards something special,” he concludes, reflecting on the fans' loyalty and patience as the team strives for greatness. His journey at Tottenham is a narrative of resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to the club’s success, serving as an inspiration for players old and new.