Ange Postecoglou was sacked by Tottenham just weeks after delivering their first European trophy in 41 years, despite a dismal Premier League season and mounting pressure for change
[dropcap]P[/dropcap]ostecoglou sacked by Tottenham after European triumph, ending a dramatic two-year spell that saw the Australian guide the north London side to their first European trophy in 41 years – and their worst Premier League finish in decades.
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The 59-year-old led Spurs to a 1-0 victory over Manchester United in Bilbao to lift the Europa Conference League and seal a return to the Champions League.
But it wasn’t enough to save his job after the club finished 17th in the Premier League, losing 22 of 38 games.
In a statement, Tottenham said the decision to part ways with Postecoglou was “not based on emotions aligned to this triumph,” but rather the result of “a review of performances” that made a managerial change “crucial.”
Postecoglou, who joined from Celtic in June 2023 on a four-year deal, said he was proud of what had been achieved:
“That night in Bilbao was the culmination of two years of hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief in a dream,” he said. “We’ve laid foundations that mean this club should not have to wait 17 more years for their next success.”
While hailed for reviving Spurs’ attacking style and winning silverware, Postecoglou’s second season unravelled domestically.
Spurs collapsed in league form, struggled in the Carabao Cup, and conceded 65 goals more than any team outside the relegation zone. Despite scoring 64 goals, defensive frailty and inconsistency plagued the campaign.
The club’s hierarchy acknowledged his “commitment and contribution”, but said the next phase required a “change in approach” to remain competitive across all fronts.
Brentford boss Thomas Frank is reportedly among the leading candidates to replace him, along with Fulham’s Marco Silva, Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola, Crystal Palace’s Oliver Glasner, and even former manager Mauricio Pochettino, currently in charge of the United States.
Postecoglou leaves Tottenham with a record of 47 wins, 15 draws, and 39 losses in 101 matches – a 46.5% win rate. He is the fourth permanent manager dismissed by Spurs since they sacked Pochettino in 2019.
Despite his divisive style and firm adherence to his philosophy, Postecoglou remains popular with a section of the fanbase. Speaking directly to supporters during the club’s victory parade, he said:
“Season three is better than season two – believe that.”
However, he will not get that chance.
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Spurs said news of his successor will be announced “in due course” and concluded by saying Postecoglou is “always welcome” at the club.
Oreoluwa is an accountant and a brand writer with a flair for journalism.
