Tottenham have last laugh over Jamie Carragher after ‘disgraceful’ rant

Ange Postecoglou Delivers Again: Tottenham’s Europa League Triumph Proves His Second-Season Magic.

There’s a pattern forming in the career of Ange Postecoglou, and it’s one he seems determined to continue—success in his second season. Whether guiding Brisbane Roar in Australia, leading the national team, dominating in Scotland with a historic Treble at Celtic, or now conquering Europe with Tottenham Hotspur, the 59-year-old coach continues to silence doubters and deliver silverware on his own terms.

Tottenham Hotspur’s 1-0 win over Manchester United in the Europa League final in Bilbao wasn’t just a historic moment for the club—it was also a powerful vindication of Postecoglou’s vision. From the very beginning of the season, the Australian-Greek manager boldly claimed he “always wins in his second season.” For months, that statement was met with derision, mockery, and relentless skepticism, especially as Spurs endured a rocky domestic campaign.
But now, as confetti settles on a European title and critics scramble to recalibrate their opinions, it’s Postecoglou who’s having the last laugh.
Having been questioned by pundits and fans alike, Postecoglou stood firm in his belief, never shying away from bold declarations about his team’s potential. His ability to stay true to his philosophy, even amid adversity and injury setbacks, is now being rewarded with European glory—Tottenham’s first major European trophy since 1984.
From the A-League to the J.League, from Celtic Park to North London, Ange has consistently proven that he can build winning teams. But this Europa League win with Tottenham is arguably his most impressive feat yet. He took over a club in turmoil, with high expectations but a long history of near-misses and underachievement. He faced critics who believed his success at Celtic couldn’t translate to the Premier League, let alone European competition. And yet, here he is—trophy in hand, doubters silenced.
Among those critics was former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher. Throughout the season, Carragher questioned Postecoglou’s tactics, his in-game decisions, and whether his bold personality was more bark than bite. But after Spurs’ Europa League triumph, even Carragher had to hold his hands up and admit he was wrong.
Appearing on CBS Sports after the final, Carragher admitted that Postecoglou had “shut us all up” and conceded that the Aussie boss had proven him wrong. “He’s not a clown,” Carragher said. “He’s quotable, confident, and he sticks to his guns. That quote about winning in his second season will be remembered forever, more than the trophy itself. Nobody thought Tottenham would win anything, and yet here we are.”
During his post-match interview, Postecoglou joined the CBS panel, which included Roy Keane, Micah Richards, and Carragher. Richards, a longtime supporter of Postecoglou’s style, congratulated him enthusiastically. “You always win in your second season, mate! How does that feel? I’ve been backing you all year,” Richards beamed.
Postecoglou replied with his trademark wit and humility, saying with a grin, “I can’t say the same for everyone on the panel,” drawing laughter from those in the studio. He then addressed the immense challenge he took on at Spurs. “It’s been the toughest couple of years of my career,” he admitted. “I knew what I was getting into. This club has had world-class managers with bigger resumes than mine who couldn’t bring success. So I knew it was a massive challenge.”
He then turned to Richards with a smile: “Sorry, Micah. You’ve been in my camp all along. I love you, mate. I think Joe Hart probably influenced you a bit.”
Indeed, it was Joe Hart—Postecoglou’s former goalkeeper at Celtic—who may have helped win over Richards with behind-the-scenes insight into Ange’s methods and character. That influence, combined with Postecoglou’s undeniable results, has now earned him widespread admiration.
For a manager who began his European journey with skepticism hanging over him, Postecoglou has not only met expectations—he has shattered them. He has earned the respect of fans, pundits, and players alike. More importantly, he has given Tottenham supporters something tangible to celebrate, injecting a winning mentality into a club that has so often come up short on the big stage.
Ange Postecoglou’s second-season record is no longer a curious trend—it’s becoming footballing folklore. And as he raises the Europa League trophy, one thing is abundantly clear: write him off at your peril.