Sixteen days after lifting the Europa League trophy in Bilbao, the club parted ways with Ange Postecoglou, the man who delivered their first piece of silverware in 17 years. It was a decision rooted in domestic disaster, not continental triumph. A 17th-place Premier League finish and 22 league losses—the most ever by a non-relegated side—forced chairman Daniel Levy’s hand.
Now, Spurs find themselves looking forward, not back. But where to next? With Champions League football back on the table, a talented core, and a fan base demanding direction, the next appointment matters more than ever.
The contenders
Thomas Frank (Brentford) The favorite. Frank has quietly turned Brentford into a stable Premier League force, with clear tactical identity and smart recruitment. He’s flexible, emotionally intelligent, and battle-tested. Spurs admire his overachievement and man-management. But will he want to leave a club where he’s adored?
Andoni Iraola (Bournemouth) If Spurs want another progressive risk-taker, Iraola fits the bill. He took Bournemouth to safety and beyond with limited resources, playing brave, front-foot football. The question isn’t talent, but scale: is he ready for the pressure cooker that is Tottenham?
Oliver Glasner (Crystal Palace) Fresh off a domestic cup win, Glasner has pedigree. He brought European silverware to Eintracht Frankfurt and now has a foothold in London. He’s tactically shrewd and emotionally reserved—a contrast to Postecoglou’s expressive energy. But would Palace part ways so quickly?
Marco Silva (Fulham) The Fulham boss blends structure with ambition. His teams are disciplined, and his track record shows staying power. He doesn’t generate headlines, but he builds competent sides that punch above their weight. Spurs could see him as a stabilizer, if not a long-term visionary.
Mauricio Pochettino (USMNT) The romantic option. Pochettino still owns goodwill in N17, but rehiring him after firing the coach who actually won a trophy? The optics are tough. Add a $20 million buyout from U.S. Soccer and the picture dims further. Still, stranger things have happened.
Outside shots Xavi (free agent), Michael Carrick (Middlesbrough), Simone Inzaghi (unattached), Kieran McKenna (Ipswich), and Brendan Rodgers (Celtic) have all been mentioned. Of those, Inzaghi has the European pedigree, while McKenna is the hottest young name in English management. But both might be too far from Levy’s risk tolerance.
What Spurs need now More than just tactics or PR wins, Tottenham need a leader who can win the room, develop talent, and deliver structure. Postecoglou proved you can make fans feel something again. The next boss has to make that feeling last—and turn it into league consistency.
The margin for error is gone. The shortlist may be long, but the clock is already ticking.
