Erling Haaland has offered a significant endorsement of Marco Rose, the frontrunner for Tottenham Hotspur's managerial vacancy, by highlighting the German coach's demanding and energetic style of play. This insight comes as Spurs search for a new head coach following the dismissal of Thomas Frank earlier this week.
Tottenham's Managerial Search Intensifies
Tottenham are actively seeking a permanent replacement after Thomas Frank's tenure ended abruptly. Frank was sacked on Wednesday after a dismal run of just two wins in 17 Premier League matches, with a recent 2-1 home defeat to Newcastle United sealing his fate. The club now faces uncertainty over whether to appoint an interim or permanent manager ahead of the crucial North London Derby later this month.
Marco Rose Emerges as Leading Candidate
Bookmakers have installed Marco Rose, the 49-year-old German tactician, as the favourite to take the helm at Tottenham. Rose has been out of work for nearly a year since his dismissal from RB Leipzig in March 2025. During his time at Leipzig, he managed Tottenham's current sensation Xavi Simons, who impressed with 18 goals and 22 assists in 68 appearances across all competitions.
Haaland's Firsthand Experience with Rose
Erling Haaland, who played under Rose at both Red Bull Salzburg and Borussia Dortmund, has shared positive remarks about the coach's methods. Upon Rose's appointment at Dortmund in 2021, Haaland told Stadium Astro: "I talked a little bit with him. I know him from before because I had six months with him in Salzburg. He's a nice guy and I look forward to working with him."
Haaland elaborated on Rose's rigorous training regime, stating: "The training is so hard here, so it's exactly the same as it was in Salzburg, a lot of hard training and there is going to be a lot of running. That's what I expect the tactic to be to press a lot, run a lot and attack a lot." This description provides Tottenham fans with a clear picture of the high-intensity, pressing football that could be implemented at the club.
Rose's Tactical Philosophy and Influences
Marco Rose has openly discussed his tactical approach, emphasizing an active and aggressive style. He previously told the Bundesliga website: "We want to be very active working against the ball when we lose possession, lots of sprinting. We want to win the ball high up the pitch and have a short path to goal. And when we have the ball ourselves, we want to play well; we don't want to punt high balls up the pitch, but be quick and dynamic getting forward."
Before transitioning into coaching, Rose enjoyed a 16-year playing career, including eight seasons at Mainz. His move to Mainz was facilitated by Jurgen Klopp, under whom he played for six years. While Rose acknowledges Klopp's influence, he insists on having developed his own distinct style.
Rose reflected: "I spent a lot of years under 'Kloppo', and it was a great time. He shaped all of us. We picked up a few things in terms of football, but above all, it was the way he was with people [that was influential]. Maybe there are a few [coaching] parallels with me and Jürgen, but I've also found my own style."
Implications for Tottenham's Future
Haaland's endorsement and Rose's proven track record with developing young talent, such as Xavi Simons, could make him an attractive option for Tottenham. The club's decision will be closely watched, especially with key fixtures like the North London Derby looming. Rose's emphasis on pressing, running, and attacking football aligns with modern Premier League trends, potentially offering Spurs a revitalized approach on the pitch.
As Tottenham navigate this critical period, the insights from Haaland and Rose's past successes provide a compelling case for his appointment. Fans and analysts alike will be eager to see if the club moves forward with Rose to steer them through the remainder of the season and beyond.
