Tottenham begin managerial hunt after Frank exit as club eyes swift appointment

Tottenham Hotspur have begun the search for a new head coach following the dismissal of Thomas Frank, with the club keen to install his successor before players report back for training on Monday, Sport360NG reports.

Frank’s tenure, which began in June, has been cut short with Spurs languishing 16th in the Premier League table, just five points clear of the relegation zone. The club’s hierarchy have acted decisively as they attempt to steady a faltering campaign.

Here, we examine the leading candidates linked with the vacancy.

Mauricio Pochettino

Age: 53
Current role: United States head coach

A familiar name to Tottenham supporters, Pochettino remains one of the most popular figures in the club’s modern history. During his five-year spell in north London between 2014 and 2019, the Argentine guided Spurs to a Champions League final and delivered consecutive top-three Premier League finishes.

Since his departure, Tottenham have cycled through several permanent managers, including José Mourinho, Nuno Espírito Santo, Antonio Conte, Ange Postecoglou and Frank.

Pochettino has previously expressed a desire to return “one day,” but any reunion appears complicated. He is currently preparing the United States for a home World Cup, and a departure before the tournament would reportedly trigger a significant compensation clause payable to U.S. Soccer.

Roberto De Zerbi

Age: 46
Current status: Unattached

De Zerbi is back on the market after leaving Marseille by mutual consent. The Italian led the French side to a second-place Ligue 1 finish last season but exited following a difficult spell that included a heavy league defeat to Paris Saint-Germain and elimination from the Champions League.

He previously impressed in the Premier League with Brighton, guiding them to a club-record sixth-place finish and historic European qualification in 2022-23. His progressive, possession-based style could appeal to Spurs’ board as they seek a clear footballing identity.

Andoni Iraola

Age: 43
Current role: Bournemouth manager

Iraola has enhanced his reputation during his time at Bournemouth. Appointed in 2023, he secured a 12th-place finish in his debut campaign before overseeing a ninth-place finish last season, setting a club-record Premier League points tally.

Despite player departures, Bournemouth have remained competitive this term. With his contract due to expire at the end of the season and previous links to Spurs, the Spaniard could emerge as a serious contender. Known for his high-pressing and energetic approach, Iraola fits the profile of a modern, front-foot coach.

Oliver Glasner

Age: 51
Current role: Crystal Palace manager

Glasner is expected to leave Crystal Palace in the summer after opting not to renew his contract. The Austrian elevated his standing by guiding Palace to FA Cup glory last season — the club’s first major trophy — and securing European qualification.

A Europa League winner with Eintracht Frankfurt in 2022, Glasner has built a reputation for tactical discipline and success in knockout competitions. His experience and silverware pedigree may strengthen his candidacy.

Marco Silva

Age: 48
Current role: Fulham manager

Silva’s future at Fulham remains uncertain, with his current contract set to expire at the end of the season. Since taking charge in 2021, the Portuguese has restored Fulham to the top flight and consolidated their Premier League status.

Previously successful in Portugal and Greece, Silva has rebuilt his reputation in England after mixed spells at Hull City, Watford and Everton. His ability to stabilise and organise teams could appeal to Spurs’ leadership during a turbulent period.

Xavi

Age: 46
Current status: Unattached

The former Barcelona and Spain midfielder has been without a club since departing Barcelona at the end of the 2023-24 campaign. During his tenure at Camp Nou, Xavi delivered a La Liga title in 2022-23 and restored a degree of domestic dominance.

Though lacking Premier League experience, his pedigree as both player and manager would bring considerable stature to north London.

Interim Possibilities

Tottenham may opt for a temporary solution until the summer. Assistant coach John Heitinga, formerly part of Liverpool’s title-winning backroom team under Arne Slot, could step in on an interim basis.

Ryan Mason, who has twice previously overseen the team in caretaker roles, is currently unattached following his departure from West Bromwich Albion. Former Spurs boss Harry Redknapp has also publicly expressed willingness to return in a short-term capacity.

With the club’s Premier League status not yet secure, Tottenham’s decision carries significant weight. Whether they pursue a high-profile reunion, a progressive tactician, or a steadying interim hand, the coming days could prove pivotal in shaping the direction of their season — and beyond.