Tottenham Hotspur remain confident of appointing an interim head coach by Monday, when the squad is set to return to training for the first time since the sacking of Thomas Frank. The club is actively pursuing candidates with the necessary experience to step in and make an immediate impact, aiming to secure a bounce that could lift them clear of the relegation battle in the Premier League.
Latest Candidates Linked to the Role
Among the latest names linked to the interim position are former Juventus manager Igor Tudor, former RB Leipzig boss Marco Rose, and former Borussia Dortmund coach Edin Terzic. Tottenham's search is focused on individuals who have a proven track record of making quick, effective changes at short notice, which is crucial given the team's precarious position in the league standings.
Strategic Approach to the Appointment
This interim appointment is seen as a strategic move to allow the club more time to evaluate a broader pool of options for a permanent head coach in the summer. The interim coach could potentially be considered for the long-term role, depending on their performance over the coming months. This approach rules out internal candidates such as Frank's assistant John Heitinga and former striker Robbie Keane, who is currently managing Hungarian league leaders Ferencvaros and is unlikely to leave a stable position for a temporary role lasting only four months.
Concerns Over Other Linked Figures
Roberto De Zerbi, who recently left Marseille, has also been linked to the role, but Tottenham are reportedly put off by his combustible nature. Additionally, there are concerns about his previous role in facilitating Mason Greenwood's career rehabilitation after the player left Manchester United under controversial circumstances. As a result, Spurs, with chief executive Vinai Venkatesham and sporting director Johan Lange leading the search, appear to have shifted their focus to other targets.
Background and Current Situation
Thomas Frank was sacked on Wednesday, less than 12 hours after a home defeat to Newcastle United. Tottenham currently sit five points clear of the relegation zone, but the pressure is mounting. Their next fixture is a crucial North London derby at home to Arsenal on Sunday week. If West Ham United defeat Bournemouth at home 24 hours prior, they could close the gap to just two points, intensifying the relegation threat for Spurs.
Leadership Changes and Challenges
Venkatesham and Lange face significant pressure with no margin for error in this managerial appointment, as it marks the first since Daniel Levy was ousted as the club's executive chairman. The departure of Levy in September, followed by co-sporting director Fabio Paratici earlier this month, has left Tottenham with a weakened network of football connections, complicating the search process. The club must navigate these challenges swiftly to stabilise the team and secure their Premier League status for the upcoming season.
