Who Will Replace Thomas Frank as Tottenham Hotspur FC’s New Manager?
Tottenham Hotspur supporters were rocked by major news this week: head coach Thomas Frank has been sacked by the club after just eight months in charge following a poor run of Premier League results. Spurs currently sit 16th in the table, just five points above the relegation zone, with the team enduring a long winless streak that finally cost Frank his job.
This marks yet another managerial change at Tottenham Hotspur FC – the club’s sixth permanent manager in seven years – and the search for Frank’s successor is now underway.
Why Frank Was Let Go
Frank was appointed in June 2025 after previously impressing at Brentford, but his tenure failed to translate into consistent Premier League success:
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Spurs have not won a league match in 2026.
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Tottenham dropped to 16th place in the Premier League.
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A 2–1 home defeat to Newcastle United was the final straw for the board.
While Frank did guide Spurs into the Champions League knockout stage, domestic struggles and fan frustration has ultimately led to the decision to part ways.
Leading Candidates to Replace Thomas Frank
Tottenham haven’t officially appointed a new manager yet, but multiple names are currently being discussed in the media, betting markets, and by pundits:
Roberto De Zerbite
Former Brighton and Marseille boss Roberto De Zerbi is widely reported as the leading candidate. He recently left Marseille by mutual agreement, making him both available and open to a Premier League return. De Zerbi’s attacking style and previous success in England have made him a popular choice in the early speculation.
Mauricio Pochettino
Another name firmly in the frame is Mauricio Pochettino, the club’s former manager from 2014–2019. Pochettino currently manages the United States Men’s National Team, and while he’s unlikely to join mid-season due to World Cup preparations, speculation suggests Spurs may consider him as a longer-term option.
Robbie Keane
Former Spurs striker Robbie Keane has also been linked with the post. Keane has enjoyed managerial success abroad and remains a popular name among the fanbase, though it’s unclear if he would take over in the short term.
John Heitinga
Current Tottenham coach John Heitinga — recently brought in as part of Frank’s coaching staff — is being discussed as a possible interim manager to hold the fort while Spurs consider longer-term targets.
Other Names Being Mentioned
Outside of the main favourites above, other managers being linked include:
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Andoni Iraola — previously mentioned as a potential candidate.
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Marco Silva, Oliver Glasner, and Xavi Hernandez — all have appeared in betting markets and pundit lists.
What Spurs Need from their New Manager
Tottenham’s next hire faces a demanding brief:
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Steady the ship in the Premier League and lift the club away from relegation danger.
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Restore confidence among supporters amid frustration and instability.
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Ideally combine tactical clarity with confidence to challenge in both league and European competitions.
Whether Spurs will go for an experienced hand or a more innovative coach remains an open question. But one thing is clear: whoever takes over will have to make an immediate impact!