Ben Davies: The Heart of Tottenham's Evolution and a Mentor for the Next Generation

In the bustling atmosphere of Tottenham Hotspur's Asian tour, Ben Davies sits down for a reflective conversation that reveals the evolution of a player who has become a cornerstone of the club over the past decade. At 31, the Welsh international still carries the essence of the 21-year-old who made his debut with the team in 2014, yet the surroundings of Spurs have transformed significantly during his tenure. With four different managers, a brand-new stadium, and a wave of young talent now in the fold, Davies has stepped up, adapting his style and approach to fit the needs of each coach. Davies reflects on his journey with a sense of humility. While he acknowledges his versatility on the pitch—shifting roles from an orthodox full-back under Mauricio Pochettino to a centre-back under José Mourinho and Antonio Conte—he also recognizes the importance of his off-field presence. His commitment to professionalism, illustrated by the pride he takes in rarely being late for meetings, sets a standard for younger players. "These are the little details: the standards in training, the gym, the everyday things that have probably helped me stay at this level for so long," he explains. The changes he has seen at Spurs are not just structural; they also encompass the club's culture. As new signings like 18-year-olds Archie Gray and Lucas Bergvall integrate into the team, Davies positions himself as a mentor. His experience at a club that has experienced its ups and downs, from the highs of reaching the Champions League final to the challenges of rebuilding, allows him to impart valuable lessons to the next generation. Arriving at Tottenham was a whirlwind for Davies. Transitioning from a smaller club like Swansea to one of the Premier League's giants was daunting. He recalls the initial shock of joining a dressing room filled with senior players while realizing that the training intensity and level of scrutiny were far greater than he had previously encountered. These early experiences shaped his understanding of professionalism and dedication—values he hopes to pass on to young players today. Davies draws inspiration from figures such as Garry Monk and Michael Dawson, whose emphasis on hard work and care for teammates left a lasting impression on him. Those lessons resonate with him as he navigates his role within the team’s evolving dynamics. His reflections on the memorable Pochettino years highlight a period of collective growth and unity, where the team's chemistry propelled them to success. However, nostalgia is not his focus; rather, he is keenly aware of the present and future. With a business and economics degree acquired during his playing career and coaching badges underway, Davies is already laying the groundwork for life after football. His role in working with Tottenham's youth teams shows his commitment to fostering the next generation, understanding that the allure of Premier League football can fade without meaningful engagement. As Spurs navigate a new era under the guidance of Ange Postecoglou, Davies feels a palpable shift in the club's atmosphere. The players' growing understanding of Postecoglou's methods, combined with the exciting brand of football being implemented, has lifted spirits around the squad. He notes that the positivity and improved results are already evident, creating an environment conducive to growth. The bond between Davies and team captain Son Heung-min is also noteworthy. With Son as the godfather to Davies' son, their relationship extends beyond the pitch. Davies describes Son as a down-to-earth individual who navigates the complexities of fame with grace. Their connection adds a layer of familial support within the team, exemplifying the kind of culture Davies cherishes. As he looks back on a decade filled with accomplishments, Davies remains grounded, emphasizing the importance of collective success over individual accolades. He is proud of the journey he has taken with Tottenham and believes they are on the cusp of something special. "We’re building towards something special and the fans have been understanding," he says, a testament to the journey Spurs have undertaken together. In a world where athletes often seek the spotlight, Ben Davies stands out—not just for his adaptability on the pitch but for the values he embodies as a leader and mentor off of it. His commitment to excellence, professionalism, and growth continues to shape the narrative at Tottenham, ensuring that his impact will be felt long after his playing days are over.