Igor Tudor, Tottenham’s newly appointed interim head coach, emphasized that there’s “no time for excuses” as he seeks to reverse the club’s downward trend in the Premier League.
The 47-year-old, who previously managed Juventus, was appointed as a replacement for Thomas Frank, who was sacked last week. Tudor aims to bolster the players’ confidence, considering it a top priority for the remainder of the season.
“My primary goal is to provide everything the team needs at this moment. They need to regain confidence and courage while also focusing on the specific aspects of our play,” Tudor shared with the club’s media. “I know the situation is challenging, and there’s no time for excuses. From day one, we all need to contribute something extra.”
Frank was dismissed last Wednesday after an eight-month tenure that ended with a 2-1 loss to Newcastle United, marking an eighth consecutive match without a win for the north London side.
Currently sitting 16th in the league, just five points above the relegation zone, Tudor is set to face a tough challenge in his first match—hosting title contenders Arsenal at home this Sunday.
“The club’s current position is unacceptable, and I know that all Tottenham supporters share this sentiment,” Tudor stated. “However, mere awareness isn’t enough.”
He acknowledged the difficulties posed by injuries within the squad, highlighting the need to develop a suitable game plan based on the players available. “It may sound unconventional, but I believe our focus should be on training. That’s where we will find our key.”
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“A coach must chart the path forward and articulate how we intend to pursue our goals, while the players must embrace this vision,” he added.
Having been dismissed by Juventus in October following an eight-match winless streak, Tudor is acutely aware of the club’s history and the fanbase’s desire for an attractive style of play. “I prioritize style over system, as every club has its own identity and culture,” he explained. “It’s vital to understand this while also staying true to my own principles and aspirations for the team.”
“My staff and I need to be resourceful and strategic to find the best approach in this limited timeframe.”