Ange Postecoglou’s tenure as Tottenham Hotspur manager is under intense scrutiny following a disappointing season that has left the club languishing in 14th place in the Premier League. Despite his optimistic claim before the season that he “usually wins something in his second season” at a club, the Australian coach has struggled to deliver results, with Tottenham already eliminated from both domestic cup competitions. The Europa League now represents his only chance to salvage the season and potentially secure his position.
Former Tottenham scout Mick Brown has suggested that Postecoglou may not remain in charge beyond the summer unless there is a dramatic turnaround in form. Speaking to Football Insider, Brown indicated that Fulham manager Marco Silva is a strong contender to replace him. Silva’s Fulham currently sit six places and 12 points above Spurs in the league and recently defeated Tottenham 2-0, further strengthening their bid for European football.
Silva, ranked 34th in FourFourTwo’s list of best managers globally, has garnered significant interest over the years. However, his reported £7.5 million release clause at Fulham has deterred potential suitors thus far. Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola and Brentford’s Thomas Frank have also been linked to the Tottenham role, though Iraola’s success with Bournemouth this season may make him difficult to lure away.
Winning the Europa League could dramatically shift the narrative around Postecoglou’s future. A victory would secure Champions League qualification for next season, offering a lifeline for the embattled manager. Failure, however, would likely mean no European football for Tottenham next season and almost certainly spell the end of Postecoglou’s tenure.
Postecoglou’s struggles have been compounded by injuries and a lack of consistency from his squad. Despite signing a four-year contract in 2023, his position remains precarious as club chairman Daniel Levy reportedly expects European qualification as a minimum requirement. With just nine league games remaining and Spurs 13 points adrift of sixth place, their chances of qualifying through league performance appear slim.
The coming weeks will be critical for Postecoglou as he attempts to turn around Tottenham’s fortunes and stave off dismissal. However, with high-profile replacements like Silva waiting in the wings, time may be running out for the former Celtic boss.