Tottenham move for new Postecoglou replacement as reason behind expected Iraola snub emerges
As Tottenham Hotspur’s season teeters on the brink of disaster, the club’s hierarchy has begun contingency planning that could see Brentford’s Thomas Frank emerge as the leading candidate to replace Ange Postecoglou.
With Thursday’s decisive Europa League quarterfinal against Eintracht Frankfurt looming as a potential watershed moment, Spurs’ board is preparing for all eventualities should their European campaign end in Germany.
The Australian manager’s position has grown increasingly precarious following a series of dismal Premier League results that have left Tottenham languishing in 15th place. Postecoglou’s preseason promise of delivering silverware in his second season now rings hollow, with Europa League success representing the only remaining path to salvage both the campaign and possibly his job.
OTEAMtalk understands a premature exit would trigger immediate discussions among decision-makers at Hotspur Way, with Frank’s name rising to the top of their contingency list.
The Frank Factor
The Brentford boss has long been admired within Tottenham’s corridors of power, having previously been considered for the vacancy following Antonio Conte’s departure in March 2023.
At that time, Frank’s commitment to the Bees project prevented serious discussions, but circumstances have evolved significantly. With Brentford stabilized in mid-table security and Tottenham potentially offering greater resources and prestige, the Danish tactician may view this as the natural next step in his career progression.
Frank’s £10 million release clause presents a manageable financial hurdle for Spurs, especially compared to the complications surrounding their initial preferred target, Andoni Iraola.
The Bournemouth manager’s impressive work at the Vitality Stadium has captured attention, but multiple obstacles have cooled Tottenham’s interest. Cherries owner Bill Foley’s imminent trip to England to discuss a contract extension demonstrates the south coast club’s determination to retain their Spanish coach, while Iraola himself appears reluctant to trade Bournemouth’s upward trajectory for Tottenham’s current turmoil.
Why Frank Fits
The 50-year-old Dane has cultivated a reputation as one of the Premier League’s most innovative coaches, achieving consistent results despite operating with one of the division’s smallest budgets.
His adaptable tactical approach and proven ability to develop players align perfectly with Tottenham’s purported vision for sustainable growth. Frank’s experience navigating Brentford’s transition from Championship overachievers to established top-flight competitors mirrors the project Spurs require – building a competitive squad without the financial firepower of their ‘Big Six’ rivals.
Moreover, Frank’s personality and communication skills would help heal the growing disconnect between the club and its disillusioned fanbase. His transparent leadership style contrasts sharply with the often divisive tenures of recent Spurs managers, offering potential for improved stakeholder relations during what promises to be a challenging rebuild.
The Bigger Picture
Tottenham’s impending end-of-season review will examine all football operations, with the managerial position just one component of a much-needed structural overhaul.
While Postecoglou could theoretically save his job with Europa League glory, the club’s dismal domestic form suggests deeper issues that may require fresh leadership regardless of continental results.
Frank’s potential appointment would represent both continuity and change – maintaining the progressive football philosophy Spurs fans crave while introducing the organizational discipline that has been conspicuously absent this season. His proven Premier League credentials and understanding of the English game give him a significant advantage over other speculated candidates like Oliver Glasner or Thiago Motta.
As Thursday’s decisive European clash approaches, Tottenham stand at a crossroads. Victory could provide Postecoglou with a lifeline and temporary reprieve from mounting pressure.
Defeat may accelerate a managerial change that brings Thomas Frank to the forefront of Spurs’ new era – a pragmatic yet ambitious appointment that could finally stabilize the club’s wayward trajectory. One thing is certain: the coming days will shape Tottenham’s immediate future in ways that could resonate for seasons to come.