Thomas Frank’s time as manager of Tottenham has concluded after only eight months following his appointment to replace Europa League-winning coach Ange Postecoglou.
Under Frank’s leadership, Spurs have encountered significant challenges, currently languishing in 16th place in the Premier League with a mere seven wins and 11 losses.
Frank’s exit was signaled by discontent from the supporters, who were heard chanting “you’re getting sacked in the morning” during the recent 2-1 home loss to Newcastle.
Currently, Tottenham sits just five points above the relegation zone, and with West Ham (18th) gaining momentum, they are fully embroiled in a relegation battle with no league victories since December.
The immediate task for the Tottenham board is to find a successor to Frank, with a focus on ensuring they avoid relegation while also progressing as far as possible in the Champions League, as a pivotal two-legged last-16 tie approaches.
Who will take the helm at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium?
1. Mauricio Pochettino
Is Mauricio Pochettino the man to replace Thomas Frank? (REUTERS)
Mauricio Pochettino oversaw a highly successful era at Tottenham from 2014 to 2019. During his five seasons, he led Spurs to a League Cup final, consistent top-four finishes, a title challenge in the 2015/16 season, and the Champions League final in 2019. Pochettino built a competitive squad that showcased progressive football on a smaller budget than other top clubs. He parted ways with the club following a lackluster start to the 2019/20 season but remains a revered figure among fans. Currently managing the United States national team, Pochettino’s return to Spurs would likely require waiting until the World Cup concludes in the summer, necessitating an interim manager for the remainder of the season.
2. Roberto de Zerbi
Could Roberto de Zerbi, having left Marseille on the same day Spurs sacked Frank, be next in line? (AFP via Getty Images)
Having made his mark at Brighton, Roberto de Zerbi is currently viewed as the second favorite to succeed Frank. He spent nearly two years at Brighton, where he fostered an attacking style of play that would resonate with Spurs fans. However, his fiery temperament could lead to potential discord with Tottenham’s board, a pattern observed during his tenures at both Brighton and Marseille. On a positive note, De Zerbi is available after leaving Marseille by mutual agreement just hours before Frank’s dismissal.
3. Oliver Glasner
Oliver Glasner has impressed at Crystal Palace and will be available at the end of the current season (Getty Images)
Crystal Palace’s manager, Oliver Glasner, has shown impressive tactical skill, successfully transforming the Eagles into a solid mid-table team in the Premier League. He took charge of Palace in February 2024 and led the club to its first major trophy, winning the FA Cup last season by beating Manchester City 1-0. Glasner’s Palace also secured this year’s Community Shield after victorious penalties against Liverpool. However, he has criticized the club’s transfer strategy, citing the departures of key players like Michael Olise, Eberechi Eze, and Marc Guehi. Glasner has announced his intention to leave at the end of the season, indicating that, similar to Pochettino, Tottenham may need an interim manager while pursuing his recruitment.
4. Robbie Keane
The former Tottenham striker is still relatively inexperienced as a manager but could Spurs take a risk by hiring him? (REUTERS)
Robbie Keane, who made over 200 appearances for Tottenham, would likely enjoy substantial fan support if appointed manager. Amid the growing discontent during Frank’s tenure, hiring Keane might revive fan enthusiasm, potentially translating into improved performance on the field. He has a relatively brief managerial career, serving five years as an assistant at several clubs, including Middlesbrough, Leeds, and the Irish national team, followed by nearly three seasons managing Maccabi Tel Aviv and currently Ferencváros. His team is currently leading the Hungarian top league, but the transition to Spurs would be significant, making his appointment a potentially risky choice for the club’s board.
5. Xavi Hernandez
Will Tottenham look to the former Barcelona boss? (Getty Images)
The odds for Xavi Hernandez taking over from Frank are around 10/1, with some bookmakers ranking him alongside Pochettino as a 4/1 favorite. Despite managing only two clubs, Al Sadd and Barcelona, Xavi would bring notable experience and pedigree in the Champions League to Tottenham. Known for his disciplinary approach and strong man-management skills, he could potentially motivate Spurs’ under-performing squad. However, his lack of Premier League experience may raise concerns, even though he has secured the Supercopa de España and La Liga title with Barcelona.
Bonus option – Ange Postecoglou
The first manager since Juande Ramos to secure a trophy with Tottenham, Ange Postecoglou ended a 17-year drought by guiding the club to the Europa League title in 2025 in his second year. Much like Frank, Postecoglou’s tenure was curtailed by disappointing league performances, yet is it possible he could be offered a second chance?
Could a surprising return be in the works for Tottenham’s former Europa League-winning manager? (Action Images via Reuters)