LONDON — Tottenham Hotspur have dismissed head coach Ange Postecoglou just over two weeks after the Australian led the club to a Europa League title, ending a 17-year trophy drought. The decision comes despite Postecoglou becoming only the third manager in club history to win a European trophy.
The 59-year-old, who was appointed on June 6, 2023, was relieved of his duties exactly two years to the day since arriving from Celtic. His departure follows a disappointing domestic campaign in which Spurs finished 17th in the Premier League — narrowly avoiding relegation.
While the team’s 1-0 victory over Manchester United in the Europa League final salvaged a Champions League berth for next season, club leadership ultimately deemed the achievement insufficient to warrant his continuation in the role.
“Following a review of performances and after significant reflection, the club can announce that Ange Postecoglou has been relieved of his duties,” Tottenham said in a statement Friday. “We are extremely grateful to Ange for his commitment and contribution during his two years at the club.”
The statement also paid tribute to his historic accomplishment: “Ange will always be remembered as only the third manager in our history to deliver a European trophy, alongside legendary figures Bill Nicholson and Keith Burkinshaw. However, the board has unanimously concluded that it is in the best interests of the club for a change to take place.”
Postecoglou, who had promised supporters “always winning” in his second season, lived up to that vow in continental competition but failed to secure consistency in the league. In a farewell statement, he reflected on his tenure with pride.
“When I reflect on my time as manager of Tottenham Hotspur, my overriding emotion is one of pride,” Postecoglou said. “The opportunity to lead one of England’s historic football clubs and bring back the glory it deserves will live with me for a lifetime. Sharing that experience with all those who truly love this club and seeing the impact it had on them is something I will never forget.”
Tottenham’s Europa League title marked the club’s first major trophy since the League Cup in 2008 and first European silverware since their UEFA Cup triumph in 1984.
Sky Sports News reports that Brentford manager Thomas Frank is the frontrunner to replace Postecoglou. The Danish coach is understood to have a release clause in his contract, although no formal negotiations have begun between the north London club and Brentford.
Frank, who has built a reputation for tactical discipline and player development, has been consistently linked with larger clubs following his success in keeping Brentford competitive in the Premier League.
Tottenham’s decision signals another dramatic chapter in the club’s turbulent managerial history. Postecoglou’s exit makes him the fifth permanent head coach dismissed since 2019, as Spurs continue their search for long-term stability and success both domestically and in Europe.
