Next Tottenham manager: Fabrizio Romano names two names “high on shortlist” to replace Ange Postecoglou
Tottenham Hotspur Part Ways with Ange Postecoglou Despite European Glory, Begin Search for New Manager
Tottenham Hotspur have officially parted company with head coach Ange Postecoglou, just weeks after he delivered the club’s first piece of silverware in nearly two decades. The decision, announced on Friday evening, comes as a shock to many supporters, given the historic triumph over Manchester United in last month’s Europa League final. However, the club’s dismal domestic campaign ultimately proved too much for the hierarchy to ignore.
Postecoglou, who took the reins in North London two seasons ago, leaves Spurs having etched his name into club folklore. Under his guidance, Tottenham lifted a European trophy for the first time since 1984, joining the ranks of iconic managers like Bill Nicholson and Keith Burkinshaw. But the fairytale ended in stark contrast, as the Australian tactician oversaw one of the worst Premier League campaigns in the club’s history.
Despite their European success, Spurs finished a dismal 17th in the Premier League, narrowly avoiding relegation with just 38 points from 38 matches. The team suffered a staggering 22 defeats over the course of the season, and their form spiraled dramatically after a promising start. The season concluded with a 4-1 home defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion, and within two weeks, the club announced that a managerial change was imminent.
Tottenham Explain the Decision Behind Postecoglou’s Departure
In a statement published on their official website, Tottenham’s board expressed their gratitude for Postecoglou’s achievements but emphasized the need for a fresh direction. “We are extremely grateful to Ange for his commitment and contribution during his two years at the club,” the statement read. “He will always be remembered as only the third manager in our history to deliver a European trophy.”
However, the club insisted that long-term objectives outweighed sentiment. “Following a positive start in the 2023/24 Premier League season, we collected only 78 points from our final 66 league matches. That form culminated in our worst-ever Premier League finish. While injuries and the decision to prioritize our European campaign were contributing factors, we cannot make decisions solely based on emotional high points.”
The statement also underscored the importance of preparing for the challenges ahead, particularly with the club set to return to the UEFA Champions League next season. “It is crucial that we are able to compete on multiple fronts, and we believe a change in approach will give us the strongest chance for success in the upcoming season and beyond,” it concluded.
Tottenham Begin Search for a New Manager
Despite the timing of Postecoglou’s exit, Tottenham have not yet appointed a successor. However, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reports that both Thomas Frank and Marco Silva are among the frontrunners to take over at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The two managers have been on Spurs’ radar for several months, particularly as questions around Postecoglou’s future intensified during the latter stages of the season.
Romano noted that a final decision is expected soon, possibly within the coming days. Frank, who has impressed at Brentford, is reportedly the leading candidate. Sky Sports claims that Spurs view the Danish manager as the top choice to lead the team into the Champions League era. Frank remains under contract at Brentford until 2027, meaning Spurs would have to pay significant compensation to secure his services.
Meanwhile, Fulham boss Marco Silva is also considered a strong contender. Like Frank, Silva has overachieved at a club operating with a modest budget and could represent the kind of pragmatic yet ambitious leadership Tottenham now seeks.
Other Options Considered, Including Andoni Iraola
In addition to Frank and Silva, Spurs are also monitoring Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola, who has earned plaudits for his tactical acumen and ability to maximize limited resources. Iraola, who joined the Cherries in 2023, has quickly adapted to Premier League football and could offer a fresh, modern approach to managing Tottenham’s talented squad.
Regardless of who is ultimately chosen, one thing is clear: Tottenham are determined to reset their course. With Champions League revenue boosting their summer transfer budget and a talented, if underperforming, squad to work with, the next manager will be handed both the tools and the expectation to deliver immediate results. Spurs chairman Daniel Levy has already spent approximately £4 million to part ways with Postecoglou—and may need to spend even more to buy out the contracts of his top managerial targets.
As the club prepares for a crucial summer of rebuilding and renewal, all eyes are on North London to see who will be tasked with leading Tottenham into their next chapter.