Manager rules himself out of Tottenham Hotspur job – decision will disappoint some fans
Tottenham Hotspur have officially entered the managerial market once again after making a bold and difficult decision on Friday — parting ways with head coach Ange Postecoglou. The announcement came just over two weeks after what many thought would be a turning point for the club: their dramatic UEFA Europa League final victory over Manchester United in Bilbao.
Despite that historic triumph, which ended the club’s long-standing trophy drought, the decision to relieve Postecoglou of his duties was ultimately made due to the team’s disastrous domestic campaign. Spurs finished a dismal 17th in the Premier League — narrowly avoiding relegation and recording one of their worst league performances in recent history. While European silverware offered a brief moment of celebration, it could not mask the underlying issues that plagued the team throughout the season.
Following his dismissal, Postecoglou issued an emotional farewell statement in which he expressed both pride in his accomplishments and sadness at the way things ended. The Australian coach highlighted the Europa League win as a career highlight but admitted that consistency in the league was something he could not deliver.
Mauricio Pochettino Responds to Speculation About Tottenham Return
Naturally, speculation quickly turned to who might step in to replace Postecoglou. One name that instantly surfaced — as it often does whenever the position becomes vacant — was former Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino. The Argentine remains a fan favorite in North London thanks to his five-year spell at the club, which included a Champions League final appearance in 2019 and a series of strong domestic campaigns that saw Spurs regularly finish in the top four.
However, those hoping for a romantic reunion were quickly met with disappointment.
Speaking to The Express, Pochettino poured cold water on the idea of a return, calling the rumors “not realistic.” Now managing the United States Men’s National Team in preparation for the 2026 World Cup, Pochettino reiterated his commitment to his current project and addressed the persistent links to his old club.
“Every time the Tottenham job is vacant, my name appears,” he said. “It’s normal, I suppose, because of the history we have, but it’s not something that’s on the table right now. Look at where I am, look at where the club is — it’s not realistic at the moment.”
While some Spurs supporters had clung to the hope of Pochettino’s return — even after his brief and controversial stint at Chelsea — the Argentine made it clear that there are no current plans to return to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, though he acknowledged the deep bond he still feels with the club. “It’s my club,” he added, comparing Spurs to his other former sides, Newell’s Old Boys and Espanyol, where he also built strong emotional ties.
Tottenham’s Next Step: Who Will Lead the Club Forward?
With Pochettino out of the equation, Tottenham’s focus now turns to other potential candidates. Among those being seriously considered is Brentford manager Thomas Frank, who is currently believed to be the leading contender. Reports suggest the club has already held several meetings with the Danish coach, who has earned praise for his structured approach and ability to maximize the performance of a modestly resourced squad.
Another name in the mix is Marco Silva, currently at the helm of Fulham. Silva’s stock has risen in recent seasons, and his possession-based attacking style has caught the attention of decision-makers at Spurs. There is a belief within the club that he could bring both stability and flair — two qualities that have been missing for much of the past season.
The urgency to find the right successor cannot be overstated. With the summer transfer window already open and rival clubs actively strengthening their squads, Tottenham are at risk of falling further behind if they do not act swiftly. The buzz and optimism following the Europa League win have already begun to fade, replaced by growing concern among supporters about the club’s direction and readiness for the new season.
Whether they opt for a steady hand like Thomas Frank, a tactician like Silva, or an unexpected outsider, the next managerial appointment will be pivotal. Tottenham are at a crossroads — and their next decision could define the club’s trajectory for years to come.