football.london writers issue Postecoglou sack verdict after AZ Alkmaar defeat

Tottenham head coach Ange Postecoglou finds himself under mounting pressure following a lackluster display against AZ Alkmaar in the Europa League. Spurs traveled to the Netherlands for the first leg of their last-16 tie, having had eight days to prepare.

However, despite the extended break, they delivered a performance devoid of intensity, structure, or any clear tactical plan. Injuries have plagued Postecoglou’s squad all season, but with Micky van de Ven, Cristian Romero, and Dominic Solanke back in contention, expectations were higher. Yet, two of them remained on the sidelines, while Solanke appeared to suffer another setback.

The second leg at home now represents a defining moment for Postecoglou’s tenure. Tottenham has already exited all other cup competitions and lingers in the bottom half of the Premier League table.

A failure to progress would intensify discussions about his future, with calls for change growing louder. The Europa League remains Tottenham’s last shot at silverware this season, but based on the performance in the first leg, they did not look like a team fighting for a trophy.

AZ dominated proceedings, securing a comfortable victory, and had they been more clinical, the scoreline could have been far worse for Spurs.

For much of the campaign, the belief was that once Postecoglou had more time on the training ground and key players returned, performances would improve. However, despite those factors aligning, Tottenham produced what was arguably their worst display of the season.

If they fail to overturn the deficit in the second leg, serious questions must be asked about whether Postecoglou is the right man to lead the club forward. Regardless of injuries or squad limitations, such performances, especially with ample preparation time, are unacceptable and ultimately reflect on the manager.

Structural issues have long been apparent but were often overlooked due to the relentless schedule and injury setbacks. Now, with no such excuses, Tottenham’s failings are laid bare.

With no immediate long-term replacement in sight, a potential dismissal would likely see Ryan Mason take charge on an interim basis once again. The bigger concern, however, is the direction of the club under Postecoglou.

Spurs have been woeful for large parts of the season, yet mitigating circumstances have provided the Australian with a level of protection. The injury crisis has been relentless, while the demanding fixture schedule has left young and inexperienced players overexposed. Several, including Archie Gray, have been forced to operate out of position, further complicating matters.

Despite those challenges, Tottenham had ample rest before facing AZ Alkmaar, making their sluggish performance all the more frustrating. The opening 20 minutes offered promise, with Spurs controlling possession and looking composed.

But once Lucas Bergvall’s unfortunate own goal handed the Dutch side the lead, Tottenham collapsed. What followed was nothing short of embarrassing, as AZ dictated the game while Spurs struggled to respond.

Even those who have defended Postecoglou now find themselves questioning his approach, with the lack of tactical adjustments becoming a glaring issue. If Spurs fail to deliver a convincing response in the return leg, his tenure could be in jeopardy.

Postecoglou added pressure on himself when he confidently declared that he always wins a trophy in his second season. With only the Europa League left, failing to deliver on that promise would intensify scrutiny.

The expectation remains that Spurs should at least progress to the quarter-finals, but given the relatively favorable draw, reaching the final should be the bare minimum. While not winning the competition may not directly lead to his dismissal, another trophyless season would only deepen the frustration surrounding the club.

If Tottenham does not show significant improvement next season, Postecoglou could find himself as one of the early managerial casualties. However, should AZ complete the job in the second leg, that timeline could be expedited.

The Spurs boss is aware that his team must produce a much-improved performance to keep his job safe. While injuries have disrupted his plans, there is no justification for the lack of energy and organization witnessed against AZ.

The tie remains within reach, but Tottenham must display a level of urgency and quality that has been missing far too often this season. Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven’s potential return for the second leg could provide a defensive boost, but that alone will not be enough. Spurs have the squad to win the Europa League, yet their inconsistency under Postecoglou raises doubts about whether they can deliver when it matters.

Throughout his tenure, one recurring theme has been Tottenham’s unpredictability. At their best, they are capable of exhilarating football, but at their worst, they lack direction and conviction. Fans have grown increasingly frustrated with this inconsistency, and patience is wearing thin.

While Postecoglou may deserve time to see out the season, an early exit from Europe would leave the club with a decision to make. The longer the struggles continue, the more likely it becomes that Tottenham explores alternative options.

Valid excuses have existed throughout the campaign, particularly regarding injuries, but those explanations no longer carry the same weight. Spurs’ squad is gradually returning to full strength, yet the performance levels remain unimpressive.

The showing against AZ mirrored the same struggles seen during the worst periods of the season, even though squad depth is improving. A lack of confidence could be cited as a factor, but Tottenham has secured some Premier League wins recently, making the ongoing inconsistency even more perplexing.

Ultimately, responsibility falls on the manager. If Tottenham fails to turn the tie around and exits the Europa League, it would serve as a damning indictment of Postecoglou’s tenure.

While sacking him mid-season may seem premature, another major disappointment could make his position untenable. With so much at stake, the second leg at home is more than just about European progression—it could determine whether Postecoglou remains in charge beyond the summer.