Talks held: Tottenham have now “discussed” hiring “genius” manager to replace Ange – reporter
The corridors of power at Tottenham Hotspur are abuzz with contingency planning as chairman Daniel Levy prepares to make a crucial decision regarding Ange Postecoglou’s future this week.
With conflicting reports swirling about the Australian manager’s position following a turbulent Premier League campaign that saw Spurs finish a disappointing 17th, the club hierarchy has begun evaluating potential successors despite Postecoglou’s Europa League triumph offering some redemption.
According to respected journalist Ben Jacobs, Tottenham have already conducted direct talks with Brentford’s Thomas Frank while internally discussing the merits of Roberto De Zerbi as they consider their options.
The Italian tactician, currently impressing at Marseille after leaving Brighton last summer, has emerged as a serious candidate should Levy opt for change. De Zerbi’s immediate success in Ligue 1 – guiding Marseille to second place and Champions League qualification – coupled with his proven Premier League pedigree makes him an attractive proposition for Spurs’ hierarchy.
Levy faces a genuine dilemma as he returns from holiday to address the managerial situation. While Postecoglou delivered European silverware, the team’s domestic struggles have raised legitimate concerns about whether he remains the right man to lead Tottenham forward.
The chairman must weigh the emotional argument for stability against the cold reality of their league position, with Champions League football next season increasing the stakes significantly.
Jacobs notes this continental qualification makes the Spurs job particularly appealing to potential candidates, though some like Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola and Fulham’s Marco Silva appear committed to their current clubs.
De Zerbi’s credentials warrant serious consideration. During his Brighton tenure, the innovative coach earned widespread praise for implementing an attractive, progressive style of play while achieving tangible success – most notably securing Europa League qualification in 2022-23.
Football analyst Statman Dave famously labeled the Italian a “genius” for his transformative work at the Amex Stadium, where he demonstrated an ability to maximize resources while developing young talent. His preferred 4-2-3-1 formation could suit Tottenham’s existing squad structure, offering continuity while introducing fresh tactical ideas.
However, luring De Zerbi from Marseille presents its own challenges. Having just secured Champions League football with the French club and only completing one season of his project there, the 45-year-old may prefer stability unless presented with an irresistible offer.
His current success in Ligue 1 contrasts sharply with Tottenham’s recent domestic struggles, potentially making the Spurs job a sideways move rather than a clear step up at this juncture.
The situation remains fluid, with Postecoglou still having supporters within the club who believe his European triumph and injury-plagued circumstances merit another season to prove himself.
The Australian’s man-management skills and ability to galvanize the squad during difficult periods shouldn’t be underestimated, though the specter of their league position looms large over any decision.
As Tottenham’s leadership convenes this week to determine their path forward, they must balance short-term pragmatism with long-term vision.
Whether sticking with Postecoglou or pursuing alternatives like De Zerbi or Frank, the choice will significantly impact the club’s trajectory as they prepare to juggle domestic and European commitments next season.
One thing appears certain – with the new campaign approaching, Levy cannot afford prolonged uncertainty in the dugout if Spurs are to capitalize on their Champions League status and rebuild momentum.