Tottenham Hotspur abruptly dismissed manager Thomas Frank, successor to Ange Postecoglou, after just eight months in charge. Appointed in June 2025, Frank handed over the reins early this month.
Club’s Official Statement Sparks Backlash
On February 11 (Korea time), Tottenham clarified that it did not threaten players or families over concerns linked to Frank. Officials emphasized pursuing the optimal decision based on extensive review and experience.
Postecoglou Fires Back on Podcast
The following day, Postecoglou appeared on the ‘Di Oberlep’s Sticky Too Football’ podcast, launching a direct critique. “If my philosophy dissatisfied Tottenham to this extent, I simply could not convey it properly,” he stated. “Tottenham claims to be a big club, but reality proves otherwise.”
Postecoglou elaborated: “Frank lacks evidence labeling Tottenham as the cause of issues. Tottenham operates as a unique club. Recent results aside, even Dani Levy’s coach noted major changes occur. This instability defines the environment.”
He added: “No manager succeeds there regardless. Seasonally stable squads exist, but Tottenham fails to retain talent. Why do you think that happens?” Postecoglou questioned the club’s direction, asserting: “Tottenham itself poses the problem. The nation knows it.”
Postecoglou’s Tottenham Tenure
Postecoglou joined Tottenham in July 2023, guiding the team to fifth in the Premier League during his debut season. The next year, they reached the Europa League semifinals—their first such run in 41 years since 1983-84 and first trophy loss in 17 years since the 2007-08 League Cup.
Yet, an 17th-place Premier League finish highlighted challenges.
Son Heung-min’s High-Profile Exit
Captain Son Heung-min, after a decade at Tottenham, transferred to MLS side LAFC. This move underscores deeper issues within the club’s leadership.
Managerial Merry-Go-Round
Since Mauricio Pochettino’s 2019 departure, Tottenham endured short stints: Jose Mourinho’s Manchester United Carabao Cup fallout, Antonio Conte’s 16-month tenure, and Nuno Espirito Santo’s four months. Each faced abrupt ends, with players voicing frustrations.
Frank’s three-year deal barely lasted one season. Postecoglou now analyzes from afar, having taken Nottingham Forest’s helm three months ago only to depart after 39 days—eight games (two draws, six losses), no wins, and the league’s lowest scoring output. He currently serves as a UEFA pundit.
Player Dissatisfaction Rumors
Rumors swirled around Pedro Neto (Chelsea), Bryan Mbeumo (Manchester United), Antoine Semenyo, and Max Gehi (both Manchester City), all linked to Tottenham exits. Postecoglou affirmed: “Tottenham chases unreliable merchants. However, the club’s choices, especially wage structure, prove it’s no big club. My reasoning stems from firsthand experience with players who stayed silent on reasons.”
