‘I’m not a clown’ – Ange Postecoglou calls out journalist in spiky press conference before Europa League final

Ange Postecoglou Defends His Reputation Amid Criticism, Insists He’s ‘Not a Clown’ as Tottenham Chase European Glory
Ange Postecoglou was visibly frustrated during his latest media appearance, as he passionately defended his reputation in response to criticism surrounding his tenure as Tottenham Hotspur manager.

The Australian coach, known for his forthright manner, took issue with an article questioning his legacy at the club, particularly a remark that he is “teetering between hero and clown” — a label he strongly rejected.

Postecoglou, who has guided Spurs to the Europa League final against Manchester United in Bilbao on Wednesday night, live on talkSPORT, has faced mounting scrutiny following an underwhelming domestic campaign.

Tottenham currently sit 17th in the Premier League with just one match remaining, a far cry from the expectations at the start of the season. However, a European trophy could dramatically change the mood around the club and offer a lifeline in what has otherwise been a turbulent year.

During his pre-match press conference, Postecoglou fielded questions from journalists, including The Standard’s Dan Kilpatrick, who asked if the manager felt he was walking a fine line between success and failure. The question appeared to reference Kilpatrick’s recent article suggesting Postecoglou’s image was wavering between being hailed as a “hero” or dismissed as a “clown” depending on the outcome of the season.

Postecoglou didn’t hold back in his response. “That depends on your outlook, Dan,” he said. “But I’ll tell you one thing, regardless of what happens tomorrow, I’m not a clown. I never have been and I never will be, mate.”

The 59-year-old went on to express his disappointment in the use of such terminology, especially given his long journey in football management. “I’m really disappointed you used that kind of language about someone who has worked relentlessly for 26 years — without handouts, without shortcuts — to earn the right to lead a club in a major European final. For you to imply that a lack of success equates to me being a clown… I honestly don’t know how to respond to that.”

Postecoglou’s comments reflect a man under pressure, but also one unwilling to let media narratives define his legacy. Despite the team’s lowly position in the league, the Europa League final presents an opportunity for silverware — and redemption.

A win over Manchester United could mark Spurs’ first major trophy since 2008 and salvage a season that has, at times, verged on disaster.
Yet, even with a potential European triumph on the horizon, Postecoglou’s future at the club is uncertain. talkSPORT understands that there are no guarantees he will continue at Tottenham beyond this season, regardless of the outcome in Bilbao.
But the Australian is unfazed by the speculation. When asked about his future, he responded with characteristic composure and perspective. “My future is assured, mate,” he told reporters. “I wouldn’t be the first person to change jobs — we all move on at some point. I’m sure you’ve had more than one job, right?”
He continued, “I’ve got a beautiful family, a fulfilling life, and I’ll keep winning trophies wherever I am until I decide to call it a day. So, don’t stress about me — as long as I’m healthy, surrounded by my loved ones and friends, my future is in good hands.”
Postecoglou even managed to inject a bit of humour into the exchange, telling talkSPORT’s chief football correspondent Alex Crook, “Don’t stress, mate. Sleep easy at night, I’ll be okay.”
When Crook asked whether Postecoglou might see the Europa League final as the natural conclusion to his time at Spurs, the manager firmly dismissed the idea. “No,” he replied. “I don’t think my job here is done. I genuinely believe we’re building something important here.”
He elaborated, “Winning a trophy might accelerate our progress, but there’s still a lot of work to be done. That’s clear given the many challenges we’ve faced this season — and those have been well documented. Still, within all that, there’s been growth, and I’d love to see where that leads.”
While Postecoglou acknowledged that nothing in football is guaranteed, he made it clear that his commitment to the club remains strong — at least for now. “Whether I get the chance to finish what we’ve started or not, that’s not the most important thing at this moment. But I don’t believe this journey is over. I feel like we’ve laid the foundations for something that could take this club to where it truly belongs.”
With all eyes on Bilbao, Postecoglou will hope his players deliver a performance that not only brings home silverware but also quiets the growing chorus of doubters. Whatever the result, it’s clear that the Spurs boss is determined to stand by his principles and protect the legacy he’s worked decades to build.