Ange Postecoglou tipped for shock move to Spurs’ Premier League rivals after being sacked by Europa League winners
Ange Postecoglou, who was recently dismissed as manager of Tottenham Hotspur, is already being tipped for a swift return to Premier League management—despite his departure coming just weeks after leading the club to its first major trophy in 17 years.
The Australian tactician guided Spurs to a narrow but momentous 1-0 victory over Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League final, held in Bilbao. The win not only ended a near two-decade silverware drought for the North London club but also secured a coveted spot in next season’s UEFA Champions League. It was a moment of pure jubilation for Spurs fans who had long waited to see their club lift a trophy again.
Ironically, Postecoglou had famously predicted success in his second season at the helm, and he delivered exactly that. However, despite this triumph, he will not be leading the club into his third campaign. On Friday, following a week of intense internal discussions and reflection, Spurs chairman Daniel Levy and the board made the decision to part ways with Postecoglou.
In a club statement, Tottenham announced that the decision was made “after a review of performances and after significant reflection.” The Europa League win was not enough to offset the team’s dismal Premier League showing, where they shockingly finished 17th—just one place above the relegation zone. The poor league form ultimately sealed the fate of the 59-year-old manager.
According to reports, Postecoglou will receive a payout of £6 million as part of his departure settlement. This sum includes £4 million in contract compensation and an additional £2 million bonus for securing the Europa League title.
Despite the abrupt ending to his Spurs tenure, there is already optimism about Postecoglou’s managerial future in English football. Former Manchester United winger and three-time Premier League champion Lee Sharpe has publicly voiced his belief that the Australian will be back on a Premier League touchline sooner rather than later.
Speaking to Coin Poker, Sharpe praised Postecoglou’s footballing philosophy and character, suggesting he remains an ideal fit for England’s top flight.
“I can definitely see Ange Postecoglou managing another Premier League club in the near future,” Sharpe said. “He has the right personality and footballing identity to thrive in this league. His high-tempo, attacking brand of football is exciting to watch and well-suited to the demands of English football.”
Sharpe went on to defend Postecoglou’s approach during his time at Spurs, noting the clear tactical identity he instilled in the team.
“He’s very clear about how he wants his teams to play. That kind of clarity is rare and valuable. When Spurs were fully fit, they looked capable of beating anyone. They were dangerous in the final third, dynamic in their pressing, and full of energy,” Sharpe continued. “Defensively, they struggled at times, but a lot of that was down to key injuries at centre-back. With a fully fit squad, I think we’d be having a very different conversation.”
The former England winger also dismissed criticism that Postecoglou lacked tactical flexibility.
“People say Ange only has one plan: all-out attack for 90 minutes. But frankly, that’s what makes his teams so entertaining. Win or lose, they’re worth watching.”
Postecoglou Responds to Spurs Exit: “I’ll Always Treasure This Journey”
In the aftermath of his sacking, Postecoglou took to social media to express his gratitude and reflect on his two seasons at Tottenham. In a heartfelt statement shared by his representatives at CAA on Instagram, the former Celtic boss thanked the club’s supporters, players, and staff for their commitment and belief.
“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,” he wrote. “Sharing that experience with those who truly love the club—and seeing the impact it had on them—is something I will never forget.”
He continued by reflecting on the journey that led to their Europa League success.
“That night in Bilbao was the culmination of two years of hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief in a dream. There were plenty of challenges along the way, and a lot of noise from those who said it couldn’t be done. But we proved them wrong.”
Postecoglou also expressed confidence in the foundation he leaves behind, suggesting that Spurs are now better positioned for sustained success.
“We’ve laid down something meaningful. This club should not have to wait another 17 years for the next taste of success. I believe deeply in this group of players—they’ve shown they can achieve even more.”
In a particularly emotional section of his message, he thanked the club’s supporters.
“I want to sincerely thank those who are the heartbeat of this football club—the fans. I know there were tough moments, but I always felt their desire for me to succeed. That support meant everything.”
Postecoglou ended the statement by praising the people he worked with most closely.
“To the players, who gave their all and are now part of the club’s history—you’re legends. And to my coaching staff, who never stopped believing in what we could achieve—thank you.”
Brentford’s Thomas Frank Leading the Race to Replace Postecoglou
With the managerial seat now vacant, speculation has quickly turned to who might replace Postecoglou at Tottenham. Early indications suggest Brentford boss Thomas Frank has emerged as the leading candidate.
Frank has earned widespread praise for his work in West London, turning Brentford into an established and competitive Premier League outfit on a relatively modest budget. His ability to develop players and organize a resilient, attacking side has reportedly impressed Spurs hierarchy, who see him as a strong fit for the club’s long-term project.
Whether or not Frank takes over, one thing is clear—Postecoglou’s legacy at Spurs will be defined by both triumph and turmoil. His bold, attacking style brought joy to the fans and a long-awaited trophy to the cabinet, but ultimately, the inconsistency in domestic results proved too much for the club’s leadership to overlook.
Still, given his recent success, many in the footballing world believe this isn’t the end of Postecoglou’s Premier League journey—but merely the start of another chapter.