Ange Postecoglou sack: Three Tottenham stars livid over exit as player plot revolt
TEAMtalk has exclusively learned that a trio of key Tottenham Hotspur players are reportedly furious over chairman Daniel Levy’s bombshell decision to part ways with Ange Postecoglou. The popular Australian coach was officially dismissed on Friday evening following the club’s dismal domestic campaign — a decision that has sparked intense backlash within the squad.
While Tottenham narrowly avoided relegation — finishing just one place above the drop zone — Postecoglou still managed to deliver a monumental achievement: securing Spurs’ first piece of silverware in 17 years by guiding them to Europa League glory last month. Despite this historic triumph, the club’s board decided to end his two-year tenure, citing the need for new leadership.
In an official statement, Tottenham said:
“We are extremely grateful to Ange for his commitment and contribution during his two years at the club. Ange will always be remembered as only the third manager in our history to deliver a European trophy, alongside legendary figures Bill Nicholson and Keith Burkinshaw. However, the Board has unanimously concluded that it is in the best interests of the Club for a change to take place.”
The decision, however, has not gone down well behind the scenes. According to TEAMtalk’s transfer correspondent Fraser Fletcher, several senior players were left stunned and disheartened by Postecoglou’s abrupt departure. Sources close to the club have indicated that Postecoglou had not lost the dressing room at any point, and many players remained firmly behind his philosophy and leadership.
In particular, three standout performers — defender Cristian Romero, centre-back Micky van de Ven, and winger Dejan Kulusevski — are said to be deeply upset by the news. All three are believed to have shared a strong bond with Postecoglou and held him in the highest regard. TEAMtalk reports they “adored” the Australian boss, with one insider revealing the trio are likely to be “livid” with Levy’s call.
The Daily Telegraph has gone even further, reporting that a potential dressing room revolt cannot be ruled out. Such was Postecoglou’s influence and popularity among the players, his dismissal has left many questioning the club’s direction and the logic behind the board’s decision.
Levy Looks to Thomas Frank Amid Growing Tensions
Despite the unrest, Tottenham are already moving quickly to find Postecoglou’s successor. Brentford boss Thomas Frank has emerged as the leading candidate to take the reins at the north London club. TEAMtalk understands that Frank is open to a move away from Brentford and has already held early discussions with Spurs.
While the potential arrival of Frank could signal a new tactical direction, it won’t come cheap. Levy is expected to pay around £5 million in compensation to Postecoglou following his dismissal — and could be forced to fork out up to double that amount to secure Frank’s release from Brentford.
Postecoglou Departs with Pride and Class
In the wake of his sacking, Postecoglou addressed the club’s fans, players, and staff in a heartfelt statement released through his representatives at CAA Base.
“When I reflect on my time as manager of Tottenham Hotspur, my overriding emotion is one of pride,” he said. “The opportunity to lead one of England’s historic football clubs and bring back the glory it deserves will live with me for a lifetime. Sharing that experience with all those who truly love this club and seeing the impact it had on them is something I will never forget.”
He continued by highlighting the significance of the club’s Europa League triumph, describing the victory in Bilbao as the ultimate payoff for two years of hard work, belief, and resilience in the face of doubt and adversity.
“There were many challenges to overcome and plenty of noise that comes with trying to accomplish what many said was not possible. We have also laid foundations that mean this club should not have to wait 17 more years for their next success.”
Postecoglou praised the squad he leaves behind, insisting that they possess the talent and determination to reach even greater heights. He also expressed sincere gratitude to Spurs supporters, whom he credited for providing the motivation and encouragement that helped him persevere during difficult moments.
“I have enormous faith in this group of players and know there is much more potential and growth in them,” he said. “I sincerely want to thank those who are the lifeblood of the club, the supporters. I know there were some difficult times but I always felt that they wanted me to succeed and that gave me all the motivation I needed to push on.”
Postecoglou closed his farewell with a message of unity and admiration for the team and staff who stood by him:
“A fantastic group of young men who are now legends of this football club and the brilliant coaches who never once doubted we could do something special. We are forever connected — Audere est Facere.”
This unexpected managerial shake-up could have wide-ranging implications, both in terms of player morale and future transfer activity. As Tottenham plots its next move, Levy and the board may now have to work overtime to rebuild trust within the squad — and ensure that the club doesn’t lose more than just a coach in the process.