Tottenham Hotspur Launch Search for New Manager After Thomas Frank Sacking
Thomas Frank's turbulent tenure as Tottenham Hotspur manager has been abruptly terminated after a mere eight months in charge. The Danish coach was dismissed on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, following a dismal run of form that has left the club languishing in 16th place in the Premier League table, perilously close to the relegation zone.
Frank's Reign Ends Amid Fan Discontent and Relegation Fears
Frank, who succeeded Europa League-winning manager Ange Postecoglou in the summer of 2025, failed to replicate his predecessor's cup success. Under his guidance, Spurs managed only seven league victories while suffering eleven defeats, culminating in a disheartening 2-1 home loss to Newcastle United. During that match, disillusioned supporters chanted "you're getting sacked in the morning," a prophecy that swiftly came to fruition.
The club now finds itself just five points above the relegation places, with West Ham United in 18th position enjoying an upturn in form. Tottenham have not secured a league win since December, plunging them into a full-scale battle for survival. The immediate priority for the Tottenham board is to appoint a successor who can steer the team clear of the drop and navigate an upcoming Champions League last-16 tie.
Five Leading Candidates for the Hot Seat
1. Mauricio Pochettino
The Argentine remains a beloved figure at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium after overseeing the club's most successful modern era between 2014 and 2019. Pochettino's achievements include consistent top-four finishes, a League Cup final appearance, a memorable title challenge in the 2015/16 season, and a historic run to the Champions League final in 2019. He cultivated a dynamic, competitive squad despite operating on a comparatively modest budget. Currently managing the United States men's national team, Pochettino would only be available after the summer's World Cup, necessitating an interim appointment for the remainder of the season.
2. Roberto de Zerbi
Bookmakers have installed the former Brighton & Hove Albion boss as the second favourite for the role. De Zerbi earned plaudits for implementing an attractive, attacking philosophy during his two-year stint with the Seagulls, a style that would likely resonate with Tottenham's fanbase. However, his fiery temperament has previously led to clashes with club hierarchies at Brighton and his most recent employer, Marseille. Significantly, De Zerbi is immediately available after leaving the French club by mutual consent on the same day Frank was dismissed.
3. Oliver Glasner
The Crystal Palace manager has demonstrated considerable tactical prowess, transforming the Eagles into a stable Premier League side. Since taking charge in February 2024, Glasner guided Palace to their first major trophy—the FA Cup—with a 1-0 victory over Manchester City last season, followed by a Community Shield win against Liverpool. However, he has publicly criticised the club's transfer policy following the sales of key players and confirmed he will depart at the season's end. Like Pochettino, this would require Tottenham to consider an interim solution if they pursue Glasner.
4. Robbie Keane
A fan favourite from his playing days, during which he made over 200 appearances for Spurs, Keane's appointment could provide an immediate morale boost. His managerial experience, however, remains limited. He has served as an assistant at Middlesbrough, Leeds United, and the Republic of Ireland national team, and has managed Maccabi Tel Aviv and current club Ferencvaros, where he leads the Hungarian top flight. Hiring Keane would represent a substantial gamble for the Tottenham board.
5. Xavi Hernandez
The former Barcelona manager is priced at 10/1 by some bookmakers, with others listing him as a joint 4/1 favourite alongside Pochettino. Xavi boasts significant pedigree, having won La Liga and the Supercopa de España with Barcelona, and brings valuable Champions League experience. Known as a disciplinarian with strong man-management skills, he could potentially galvanise Tottenham's underperforming squad. His lack of Premier League exposure, however, remains a notable concern.
Bonus Candidate: Ange Postecoglou
Could Tottenham contemplate a sensational return for Ange Postecoglou? The Australian ended the club's 17-year trophy drought by winning the Europa League in 2025, becoming the first manager since Juande Ramos in 2008 to secure silverware. His tenure was also cut short due to poor league performances, mirroring Frank's fate. While a reunion seems improbable, it cannot be entirely ruled out as the board weighs its options.
The coming weeks will be critical as Tottenham seek a manager capable of arresting their alarming slide and restoring stability to a club in crisis.
