This is the question on the minds of every Spurs fan in the land and abroad after a second consecutive season of highs, lows and, eventually, disappointed.
After a romantic run into the Champions League quarter finals in 2010/11, featuring the rise to prominence of a certain Welsh wizard, Spurs have been desperately close yet so painfully far from experiencing the wonderful European nights at White Hart Lane.
Denied by Chelsea’s Champions League heroics in 2011/12 and Arsenal’s final day victory in 2012/13, 2013/14 shapes as a massive season for the Lilywhites. But how can they pip the likes of the Blues and the Gunners for that elusive European place?
This is how it can happen:
Retain Gareth Bale: Not only is he the main man and talisman for Spurs, he is rightfully regarded as one of the best in the world right now.
Andre Villas Boas builds his side around the Welsh star, tucking him in behind the striker to allow him to drift into space and regularly pick up the ball, where he can utilise his blistering pace and power, venomous shot and excellent ball control.
Greater exposure to this role will see Bale improve and have an even greater impact. Twenty-five goals in all competitions are invaluable, and warding off the interest of Real Madrid and Manchester United will play a huge factor in Spurs chances of qualifying for the Champions League.
Sign a goal scorer: It is common knowledge that without the presence of Bale, Spurs would not have challenged for the top four places.
Without his 21 goals in the league, Spurs would be short 24 points, leaving them on 46, barely enough for a top half finish. After an outstanding year, the pressure on Bale will be immense, and as such, for Spurs to succeed, a proven goal scorer must be signed.
Chairman Daniel Levy tends to favour bargain signings, and may try to replicate the type of business Aston Villa did in signing Christian Benteke. However, after seasons of shrewdness, it is an appropriate time for the shackles to be broken and for some big money to be spent.
Spurs have been linked with the likes of Roberto Soldado of Valencia and Leandro Damaio of Internacional, and both would be ideal with their proven records and international experience.
Damaio would perhaps present more of a risk, as he is yet untried in Europe, though his arrival would certainly not be detrimental to Spurs. The retaining of Bale would be aided by a big money arrival and it is in the best interests of Spurs to invest, so as to not become stagnant and to keep improving and to challenge.
The potential is there, the foundations are laid, and Tottenham are very capable of qualifying for the Champions League next season, however much depends on keeping their standout player and signing a striker to put the ball in the back of the net.
If these things can be done, European football at the highest level could return to the Lane very soon.
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