Tottenham Hotspur have dramatically sacked manager Ange Postecoglou just 16 days after he led the club to its first trophy in 17 years.
The decision, announced on Friday, follows a season of domestic disappointment despite Europa League glory — a 1-0 victory over Manchester United in Bilbao that marked Spurs’ first European title in 41 years.
Postecoglou, who joined from Celtic in June 2023, was relieved of his duties following what the club described as a “significantb reflection” on the 2024/25 season. Under his leadership, Spurs secured Champions League qualification by winning the Europa League, but a disastrous 17th-place finish in the Premier League proved to be his undoing.
In a statement shared on their official X (formerly Twitter) account, Tottenham said:
“Whilst winning the Europa League this season ranks as one of the club’s greatest moments, we cannot base our decision on emotions aligned to this triumph. It is crucial that we are able to compete on multiple fronts.”
Tottenham lost 22 of their 38 league matches, narrowly avoiding relegation. The club, chaired by Daniel Levy, cited the need for a “change of approach” as it prepares for next season.
Postecoglou, aged 59, departs exactly two years after taking over in north London. During his tenure, he introduced a dynamic brand of attacking football, known by fans and pundits alike as “Angeball,” and restored belief in a team long starved of silverware.
Despite this, his time at Spurs was also marred by tension. He clashed with supporters during a match against Chelsea and grew frustrated with media speculation about his future, even after lifting the Europa League trophy.
In a parting statement, Postecoglou said:
“My overriding emotion is one of pride. The opportunity to lead one of England’s historic football clubs and bring back the glory it deserves will live with me for a lifetime. That night in Bilbao was the culmination of two years of hard work.”
The club is now expected to turn its attention to finding a replacement, with Brentford’s Thomas Frank and Fulham’s Marco Silva reportedly leading the shortlist.
Postecoglou, who previously won five trophies with Celtic and led Australia to the 2015 Asian Cup, exits as the fifth manager sacked by Levy in six years.
While his second-year trophy claim proved true, it ultimately wasn’t enough to secure his future in what remains one of England’s most unforgiving managerial posts. The search now begins for a successor capable of sustaining success on both domestic and European fronts.
