Tottenham board now debating hire of “elite” £8.3m-p/y manager after deciding to be bold
The corridors of power at Tottenham Hotspur are buzzing with unexpected ambition as Daniel Levy’s search for Ange Postecoglou’s potential successor takes a spectacular turn toward the upper echelons of world football management.
While names like Andoni Iraola, Marco Silva, and even returning hero Mauricio Pochettino have dominated recent speculation, a new shock candidate has entered the frame – Real Madrid’s legendary tactician Carlo Ancelotti.
The Italian maestro’s inclusion on Tottenham’s shortlist represents a staggering shift in strategy from a club that has traditionally favored up-and-coming managers.
Ancelotti’s glittering CV – featuring five Champions League triumphs, domestic titles in England, Spain, Germany, and Italy, and a reputation as one of football’s most respected man-managers – would instantly restore credibility to a Spurs project that has lost its way this season.
Despite sitting 16th in the Premier League with 18 defeats, Tottenham’s hierarchy appears determined to make a statement appointment that would reverberate across European football.
Ancelotti’s current situation at Real Madrid adds intrigue to this unlikely pursuit. With his contract expiring in 2026 and Los Blancos heavily linked with Xabi Alonso, the 65-year-old could find himself at a career crossroads this summer.
While the Bernabéu remains his natural habitat, the challenge of reviving Tottenham – with their impressive infrastructure and talented young squad – might appeal to a manager who has conquered every other major league in Europe.
The obstacles to this ambitious move are substantial. Ancelotti would need convincing that Tottenham’s project offers more promise than the failed tenures of fellow elite coaches José Mourinho and Antonio Conte.
Levy would have to provide transfer market assurances that have been lacking in previous regimes. Most crucially, Spurs would need to demonstrate they can match Ancelotti’s trophy expectations – a tall order for a club with one League Cup since 1999.
This bold approach contrasts sharply with the more pragmatic options under consideration. Bournemouth’s Iraola offers exciting tactical innovation, while Pochettino’s potential return carries emotional resonance.
Crystal Palace’s Oliver Glasner represents a middle ground between proven pedigree and upward mobility. Yet Ancelotti’s sudden emergence suggests Levy recognizes the need for a manager whose reputation alone can attract world-class talent and instantly command respect in the dressing room.
The coming weeks will reveal whether this interest develops into concrete negotiations or remains an ambitious pipe dream.
What’s certain is that Tottenham’s managerial search has entered uncharted territory – targeting a coach who would represent their most prestigious appointment since the glory days of Bill Nicholson.
In a summer where several top clubs will chase the same elite managers, Spurs’ willingness to aim for Ancelotti demonstrates either refreshing ambition or desperate gambler’s logic. Either way, it makes for compelling drama as Tottenham’s turbulent season approaches its conclusion.