Tottenham Hotspur have parted company with manager Igor Tudor after just seven games and 44 days, as the club desperately tries to avoid relegation from the Premier League. The decision was described as mutually agreed. Spurs have now renewed efforts to persuade former Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi to take over immediately.
Tudor, who had no previous experience of English football, managed only one point from five league matches, leaving Spurs one point and one place above the relegation zone. The final straw came with a 3-0 home defeat by Nottingham Forest on Sunday. The club has now gone 13 league games without a win, their worst run since 1934-35 when they were relegated from the old Division One.
De Zerbi, who left Marseille earlier this season, had initially rejected Spurs' approach in February, preferring a break until summer. However, Tottenham believe they can convince the Italian, whose attacking style and Premier League experience appeal to the club's hierarchy. They want to secure him on a long-term contract, though De Zerbi remains hesitant about taking on a relegation battle mid-season.
Tudor's tenure was overshadowed by personal tragedy, as he learned of his father Mario's death after the Forest match. The club expressed support for the Croatian and his family. His coaching staff, including Tomislav Rogic and Riccardo Ragnacci, have also left. Bruno Saltor will take training until a successor is appointed, expected in the coming days.
Spurs have been exploring contingency options for weeks but have found many targets reluctant to commit short-term to a relegation fight. With seven matches remaining, the club faces the prospect of a first relegation from the top division since 1976-77, a scenario that would be devastating for prestige and revenues. Their next match is away to Sunderland on Sunday week.
