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Management So (hypothetically) who replaces Ange then?
- Thread starter Shadydan
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I wonder if he ever manages again
He's a one club man; meaning it's Spain, Italy or the German national team... Or retirement.
I wonder how much he got paid for the Trivago Ad which usually means that I switch channels!
I don't think the club will involve Paratici in any official decision making until he has served his ban on 30th June 2025. So I'm entitle to my doubts that we'll have a new manager by then if he is going to be selecting the candidate.
Edit - I assume all he can do is recommend until then.
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I doubt Italy or Spain tbh. Those leagues are alien to his style. I know Barca and Real have been rumoured before but it's tough to see.
I really do hope they’ve actually got something lined up immediately after Brighton game. It’s a big summer, all the top clubs look like they’re going to be spending big and the market looks like it’s already active. We can’t afford to waste time with another shambolic manager search like a few years back.
They’ve had enough time to of spoken to managers to see who would be interested, this time next week we should really know who’s going to be managing us next season if we’re serious.
They’ve had enough time to of spoken to managers to see who would be interested, this time next week we should really know who’s going to be managing us next season if we’re serious.
To add to that, I really can see some names wanting to leave this summer. It wouldn't have been an enjoyable season for the players and it'll be easy to have their heads turned.
The big thing they'll be waiting for is to find out who will be manager on the first day of next season. The longer Levy drags that decision out, the more chance players will demand moves.
Maybe Slot walking the league has done someting to his ego - needs to feel relevant again. Dunno
I see a summer of dithering followed by panicking because all the decent managers have been appointed followed by someone completely inappropriate. Again! Ange type 2.0 incoming....
Considering how much time they had to find a new manager in 2021 and 2023, and how they handled both of them I think it's fair to say they don't.
Going to Roma allegedly…make the call Fabio.
Think he will struggle a bit next season. Honeymoon season he had this year.
I sometimes ask an AI to act as sports directors and suggest who to replace Ange. This is such an answer from GROK.
As a sporting director tasked with replacing Ange Postecoglou at Tottenham Hotspur in the summer of 2025, I would prioritize managers whose playing styles align with Tottenham’s DNA—characterized by fast, attacking football, a positive mentality, and a strong emphasis on youth development, as highlighted by chairman Daniel Levy when Postecoglou was appointed. The ideal candidate should deliver entertaining, offensive football while nurturing young talents like Lucas Bergvall, Archie Gray, and Wilson Odobert, as Postecoglou himself emphasized the importance of giving young players opportunities to develop. Below, I analyze four realistic managerial candidates whose profiles match these criteria, based on their track records and current availability. I’ll also consider Kieran McKenna, given your previous interest in his approach, and evaluate how his style fits Tottenham’s needs.
Criteria for Selection
Tottenham DNA: A commitment to quick, attacking football, ideally using a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1, with an emphasis on possession, high pressing, and verticality, as seen under Postecoglou and historically under managers like Mauricio Pochettino.
Youth Development: A proven ability to improve young players, integrating them into the first team and aligning with Tottenham’s focus on academy links.
Realism: Managers who are attainable in summer 2025, considering their current roles, contract situations, and likelihood of moving to Tottenham, a club that finished 14th in the 2024/25 Premier League season and is competing in the Europa League.
Availability: Candidates who are either out of contract, at clubs where a move is feasible, or have been linked to Tottenham in recent reports.
Realistic Managerial Candidates
Here are four managers I would analyze deeply, including Kieran McKenna, with an assessment of their fit for Tottenham’s DNA and youth development credentials:
1. Kieran McKenna (Ipswich Town)
Current Role and Availability (Summer 2025): McKenna, aged 38, is currently managing Ipswich Town in the Premier League. Despite leading Ipswich to back-to-back promotions from League One to the Premier League, their 2024/25 season has been challenging, with relegation likely after 20 losses in 33 matches. His contract runs until 2028, but a move to a bigger club like Tottenham could be tempting, especially if Ipswich are relegated. He has been linked to Tottenham as a potential Postecoglou replacement.
Playing Style and Tottenham DNA:
Formation: McKenna favors a 4-2-3-1, which transitions to a 3-2-5 in attack, aligning with Tottenham’s preference for fluid, attacking systems. His Ipswich side controlled possession (over 50% in League One and Championship) and used high pressing (PPDA of 10.7 in League One, 11.1 in Championship) to win the ball high and transition quickly.
Attacking Philosophy: Ipswich scored 101 goals in League One (2022/23) and 92 in the Championship (2023/24), spreading goals across multiple players (e.g., eight players with 4+ goals in the Championship). This collective attacking approach mirrors Tottenham’s desire for entertaining football.
Fit: McKenna’s high-pressing, vertical style is reminiscent of Postecoglou’s “Angeball” and Pochettino’s dynamic Tottenham sides. However, his Premier League struggles suggest he may need a stronger squad to fully implement his vision, which Tottenham could provide.
Youth Development:
McKenna has a strong track record of improving young players. At Ipswich, he transformed Leif Davis into a Championship assist leader (18 assists in 2023/24) and developed Conor Chaplin into League One’s top scorer (26 goals in 2022/23). Loan players like Omari Hutchinson and George Hirst also thrived under his guidance.
His background as a youth coach at Manchester United and Tottenham’s own academy gives him a deep understanding of nurturing talent, making him ideal for developing players like Bergvall and Gray.
Pros:
Proven ability to implement an attacking, high-pressing style that fits Tottenham’s DNA.
Exceptional at developing young players, aligning with Tottenham’s academy focus.
Premier League experience, even if mixed, and familiarity with English football.
Young and ambitious, offering a long-term project similar to Pochettino’s tenure.
Cons:
Limited top-tier success; Ipswich’s relegation risk raises questions about his readiness for a high-pressure role.
May require time to adapt his system to Tottenham’s squad, which has struggled with consistency.
Why a Fit?: McKenna’s attacking philosophy and youth development credentials make him a strong candidate to continue Postecoglou’s project. His familiarity with Tottenham’s academy from his coaching days adds an extra layer of alignment.
2. Andoni Iraola (AFC Bournemouth)
Current Role and Availability: Iraola, aged 43, has elevated Bournemouth to a mid-table Premier League side, finishing 11th in 2023/24 and performing strongly in 2024/25. His contract runs until 2026, but Tottenham’s stature and resources could lure him, especially as he’s been named among potential Postecoglou replacements.
Playing Style and Tottenham DNA:
Formation: Iraola typically uses a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3, emphasizing high pressing and quick transitions. Bournemouth led the Premier League in high turnovers in 2023/24, with a PPDA among the league’s lowest, reflecting an intense, aggressive style.
Attacking Philosophy: His teams play fast, direct football with a focus on wing play and exploiting spaces behind defenses. Bournemouth scored 54 goals in the 2023/24 Premier League season, with players like Dominic Solanke thriving under his system before moving to Tottenham.
Fit: Iraola’s high-energy, attacking approach aligns with Tottenham’s desire for “fast, offensive football.” His ability to compete against stronger teams with limited resources suggests he could thrive with Tottenham’s squad.
Youth Development:
Iraola has developed young talents like Milos Kerkez (20, left-back) and Alex Scott (21, midfielder) at Bournemouth, integrating them into a competitive Premier League side. His work with Solanke, who went from a struggling striker to a 19-goal Premier League star in 2023/24, shows his ability to maximize potential.
While not as academy-focused as McKenna, Iraola’s tactical clarity helps young players adapt quickly to senior football, which would benefit Tottenham’s young core.
Pros:
Proven Premier League success with a smaller club, suggesting he could scale his approach at Tottenham.
High-pressing, attacking style that excites fans and fits Tottenham’s identity.
Experience developing young players into key contributors.
Cons:
Less emphasis on academy integration compared to McKenna or Pochettino.
Bournemouth’s smaller budget means he hasn’t managed a squad with Tottenham’s expectations or pressure.
Why a Fit?: Iraola’s Premier League experience and attacking philosophy make him a strong candidate to maintain Tottenham’s style while bringing stability. His youth development track record is promising, though less extensive than McKenna’s.
3. Thomas Frank (Brentford)
Current Role and Availability: Frank, aged 51, has been Brentford’s manager since 2018, leading them to Premier League promotion in 2021 and consistent mid-table finishes (9th in 2021/22, 13th in 2023/24). His contract runs until 2027, but he’s been linked to Tottenham and other top clubs, making a move plausible if Tottenham offer a step up.
Playing Style and Tottenham DNA:
Formation: Frank uses a flexible 4-3-3 or 3-5-2, adapting to opponents but maintaining a high-pressing, direct style. Brentford’s PPDA was among the Premier League’s lowest in 2023/24, and they excel at set-pieces and quick transitions.
Attacking Philosophy: Brentford scored 56 goals in the 2023/24 Premier League season, with an emphasis on exploiting wide areas and set-piece efficiency (10+ set-piece goals annually). Frank’s teams are pragmatic but attack-minded, balancing flair with discipline.
Fit: Frank’s style is less flamboyant than Postecoglou’s but still aligns with Tottenham’s desire for attacking football. His adaptability could address Tottenham’s defensive frailties, exposed under Postecoglou (18 losses in 2024/25).
Youth Development:
Frank has a strong record of developing young players, such as Ivan Toney (from League One to England international) and Keane Lewis-Potter (21, winger). Brentford’s B-team system under Frank has produced talents like Ryan Trevitt and Yehor Yarmolyuk, who transitioned to the first team.
His focus on a clear tactical identity helps young players integrate, which would suit Tottenham’s young squad.
Pros:
Extensive Premier League experience with a smaller club, proving he can punch above his weight.
Adaptable tactician who balances attacking intent with defensive structure.
Proven ability to develop young players and work within a data-driven recruitment model, aligning with Tottenham’s approach.
Cons:
His pragmatic style may not fully satisfy fans expecting the flair of “Angeball” or Pochettino’s Tottenham.
Long contract with Brentford could require a significant compensation fee.
Why a Fit?: Frank’s Premier League pedigree and ability to develop players make him a safe, realistic choice. His pragmatic approach could stabilize Tottenham while maintaining an attacking edge, though he may need to adapt to fan expectations for more expansive football.
4. Edin Terzić (Unattached)
Current Role and Availability: Terzić, aged 42, is currently unattached after leaving Borussia Dortmund in June 2024 following a Champions League final appearance. He reportedly turned down Besiktas, with sources claiming he was waiting for an agreement with Tottenham, making him a strong candidate for summer 2025.
Playing Style and Tottenham DNA:
Formation: Terzić typically employs a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3, focusing on high pressing, quick transitions, and exploiting wide areas. Dortmund under Terzić in 2022/23 averaged 52% possession and led the Bundesliga in high turnovers.
Attacking Philosophy: His Dortmund side scored 81 goals in the 2022/23 Bundesliga season, with an emphasis on dynamic wing play (e.g., Donyell Malen, Karim Adeyemi) and a high-pressing game (PPDA around 10.5). His teams are known for intensity and attacking intent, fitting Tottenham’s DNA.
Fit: Terzić’s high-energy, attacking style aligns closely with Postecoglou’s philosophy and Tottenham’s expectations for entertaining football. His Champions League experience adds a pedigree that could elevate Tottenham’s ambitions.
Youth Development:
Terzić is renowned for developing young talents at Dortmund, including Jude Bellingham (17–20 years old during Terzić’s tenure), Youssoufa Moukoko (16–18), and Jamie Bynoe-Gittens (18–20). His trust in youth helped Dortmund reach the 2024 Champions League final.
His experience with Dortmund’s youth-focused model would translate well to Tottenham’s academy-driven approach, nurturing players like Bergvall and Odobert.
Pros:
Proven at a high level with Dortmund, including a Champions League final.
High-pressing, attacking style that matches Tottenham’s DNA.
Strong track record with young players, ideal for Tottenham’s youthful squad.
Unattached, reducing compensation costs and making him immediately available.
Cons:
Limited Premier League experience, which could require an adjustment period.
Inconsistent domestic results at Dortmund (e.g., losing the 2022/23 Bundesliga title on the final day) raise questions about his ability to handle pressure.
Why a Fit?: Terzić’s attacking philosophy, youth development expertise, and European experience make him an exciting, high-potential option. His availability and reported interest in Tottenham make him a realistic target.
Honorable Mention: Mauricio Pochettino (United States Men’s National Team)
Current Role: Pochettino, aged 53, is managing the USMNT, a role he took in 2024. He has been linked with a Tottenham return, having expressed openness to it in 2022. However, his commitment to the USMNT until the 2026 World Cup makes a summer 2025 move less realistic unless he negotiates an early exit.
Playing Style and Tottenham DNA: Pochettino’s 4-2-3-1 and high-pressing, attacking football are the gold standard for Tottenham’s DNA, as seen during his 2014–2019 tenure (Champions League final 2019). His style would be a seamless fit.
Youth Development: He developed Harry Kane, Dele Alli, and Eric Dier into stars, making him ideal for Tottenham’s young squad.
Why Not Primary?: His USMNT contract and the unlikelihood of leaving before 2026 reduce his availability. However, his past success at Tottenham makes him a dream candidate if circumstances change.
Recommendation and Deep Analysis Plan
As sporting director, I would prioritize Kieran McKenna and Edin Terzić for deeper analysis due to their alignment with Tottenham’s attacking DNA, proven youth development, and realistic availability:
McKenna: His Premier League experience, youth coaching background, and success with Ipswich’s attacking style make him a long-term fit. I would analyze his tactical adaptability in the Premier League, his ability to handle Tottenham’s high-pressure environment, and his recruitment preferences to ensure squad fit.
Terzić: His Champions League pedigree and unattached status make him highly attainable. I would evaluate his ability to adapt to the Premier League’s intensity, his integration of Tottenham’s young players, and his handling of fan expectations for expansive football.
Next Steps:
Tactical Analysis: Review match footage from McKenna’s Ipswich (2023/24 Championship) and Terzić’s Dortmund (2022/23 Bundesliga) to assess how their systems would translate to Tottenham’s squad, particularly for players like Kulusevski, Bergvall, and Son.
Player Development Plans: Request detailed reports from both managers on how they would integrate Tottenham’s young talents (e.g., Bergvall, Gray, Odobert) and academy prospects.
Cultural Fit: Conduct interviews to gauge their alignment with Tottenham’s fanbase and board expectations, focusing on their vision for attacking football and academy links.
Contract and Feasibility: Assess McKenna’s release clause with Ipswich and confirm Terzić’s availability, ensuring no unforeseen barriers (e.g., compensation disputes).
Conclusion
Kieran McKenna and Edin Terzić stand out as the most realistic and exciting candidates to replace Postecoglou, offering attacking football and youth development expertise that align with Tottenham’s DNA. Andoni Iraola and Thomas Frank are strong alternatives with Premier League experience, while Pochettino remains a long shot due to his USMNT role. McKenna’s familiarity with Tottenham’s academy and Terzić’s European pedigree make them my top two for deeper analysis, with a slight edge to McKenna for his English football experience and long-term potential.
As a sporting director tasked with replacing Ange Postecoglou at Tottenham Hotspur in the summer of 2025, I would prioritize managers whose playing styles align with Tottenham’s DNA—characterized by fast, attacking football, a positive mentality, and a strong emphasis on youth development, as highlighted by chairman Daniel Levy when Postecoglou was appointed. The ideal candidate should deliver entertaining, offensive football while nurturing young talents like Lucas Bergvall, Archie Gray, and Wilson Odobert, as Postecoglou himself emphasized the importance of giving young players opportunities to develop. Below, I analyze four realistic managerial candidates whose profiles match these criteria, based on their track records and current availability. I’ll also consider Kieran McKenna, given your previous interest in his approach, and evaluate how his style fits Tottenham’s needs.
Criteria for Selection
Tottenham DNA: A commitment to quick, attacking football, ideally using a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1, with an emphasis on possession, high pressing, and verticality, as seen under Postecoglou and historically under managers like Mauricio Pochettino.
Youth Development: A proven ability to improve young players, integrating them into the first team and aligning with Tottenham’s focus on academy links.
Realism: Managers who are attainable in summer 2025, considering their current roles, contract situations, and likelihood of moving to Tottenham, a club that finished 14th in the 2024/25 Premier League season and is competing in the Europa League.
Availability: Candidates who are either out of contract, at clubs where a move is feasible, or have been linked to Tottenham in recent reports.
Realistic Managerial Candidates
Here are four managers I would analyze deeply, including Kieran McKenna, with an assessment of their fit for Tottenham’s DNA and youth development credentials:
1. Kieran McKenna (Ipswich Town)
Current Role and Availability (Summer 2025): McKenna, aged 38, is currently managing Ipswich Town in the Premier League. Despite leading Ipswich to back-to-back promotions from League One to the Premier League, their 2024/25 season has been challenging, with relegation likely after 20 losses in 33 matches. His contract runs until 2028, but a move to a bigger club like Tottenham could be tempting, especially if Ipswich are relegated. He has been linked to Tottenham as a potential Postecoglou replacement.
Playing Style and Tottenham DNA:
Formation: McKenna favors a 4-2-3-1, which transitions to a 3-2-5 in attack, aligning with Tottenham’s preference for fluid, attacking systems. His Ipswich side controlled possession (over 50% in League One and Championship) and used high pressing (PPDA of 10.7 in League One, 11.1 in Championship) to win the ball high and transition quickly.
Attacking Philosophy: Ipswich scored 101 goals in League One (2022/23) and 92 in the Championship (2023/24), spreading goals across multiple players (e.g., eight players with 4+ goals in the Championship). This collective attacking approach mirrors Tottenham’s desire for entertaining football.
Fit: McKenna’s high-pressing, vertical style is reminiscent of Postecoglou’s “Angeball” and Pochettino’s dynamic Tottenham sides. However, his Premier League struggles suggest he may need a stronger squad to fully implement his vision, which Tottenham could provide.
Youth Development:
McKenna has a strong track record of improving young players. At Ipswich, he transformed Leif Davis into a Championship assist leader (18 assists in 2023/24) and developed Conor Chaplin into League One’s top scorer (26 goals in 2022/23). Loan players like Omari Hutchinson and George Hirst also thrived under his guidance.
His background as a youth coach at Manchester United and Tottenham’s own academy gives him a deep understanding of nurturing talent, making him ideal for developing players like Bergvall and Gray.
Pros:
Proven ability to implement an attacking, high-pressing style that fits Tottenham’s DNA.
Exceptional at developing young players, aligning with Tottenham’s academy focus.
Premier League experience, even if mixed, and familiarity with English football.
Young and ambitious, offering a long-term project similar to Pochettino’s tenure.
Cons:
Limited top-tier success; Ipswich’s relegation risk raises questions about his readiness for a high-pressure role.
May require time to adapt his system to Tottenham’s squad, which has struggled with consistency.
Why a Fit?: McKenna’s attacking philosophy and youth development credentials make him a strong candidate to continue Postecoglou’s project. His familiarity with Tottenham’s academy from his coaching days adds an extra layer of alignment.
2. Andoni Iraola (AFC Bournemouth)
Current Role and Availability: Iraola, aged 43, has elevated Bournemouth to a mid-table Premier League side, finishing 11th in 2023/24 and performing strongly in 2024/25. His contract runs until 2026, but Tottenham’s stature and resources could lure him, especially as he’s been named among potential Postecoglou replacements.
Playing Style and Tottenham DNA:
Formation: Iraola typically uses a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3, emphasizing high pressing and quick transitions. Bournemouth led the Premier League in high turnovers in 2023/24, with a PPDA among the league’s lowest, reflecting an intense, aggressive style.
Attacking Philosophy: His teams play fast, direct football with a focus on wing play and exploiting spaces behind defenses. Bournemouth scored 54 goals in the 2023/24 Premier League season, with players like Dominic Solanke thriving under his system before moving to Tottenham.
Fit: Iraola’s high-energy, attacking approach aligns with Tottenham’s desire for “fast, offensive football.” His ability to compete against stronger teams with limited resources suggests he could thrive with Tottenham’s squad.
Youth Development:
Iraola has developed young talents like Milos Kerkez (20, left-back) and Alex Scott (21, midfielder) at Bournemouth, integrating them into a competitive Premier League side. His work with Solanke, who went from a struggling striker to a 19-goal Premier League star in 2023/24, shows his ability to maximize potential.
While not as academy-focused as McKenna, Iraola’s tactical clarity helps young players adapt quickly to senior football, which would benefit Tottenham’s young core.
Pros:
Proven Premier League success with a smaller club, suggesting he could scale his approach at Tottenham.
High-pressing, attacking style that excites fans and fits Tottenham’s identity.
Experience developing young players into key contributors.
Cons:
Less emphasis on academy integration compared to McKenna or Pochettino.
Bournemouth’s smaller budget means he hasn’t managed a squad with Tottenham’s expectations or pressure.
Why a Fit?: Iraola’s Premier League experience and attacking philosophy make him a strong candidate to maintain Tottenham’s style while bringing stability. His youth development track record is promising, though less extensive than McKenna’s.
3. Thomas Frank (Brentford)
Current Role and Availability: Frank, aged 51, has been Brentford’s manager since 2018, leading them to Premier League promotion in 2021 and consistent mid-table finishes (9th in 2021/22, 13th in 2023/24). His contract runs until 2027, but he’s been linked to Tottenham and other top clubs, making a move plausible if Tottenham offer a step up.
Playing Style and Tottenham DNA:
Formation: Frank uses a flexible 4-3-3 or 3-5-2, adapting to opponents but maintaining a high-pressing, direct style. Brentford’s PPDA was among the Premier League’s lowest in 2023/24, and they excel at set-pieces and quick transitions.
Attacking Philosophy: Brentford scored 56 goals in the 2023/24 Premier League season, with an emphasis on exploiting wide areas and set-piece efficiency (10+ set-piece goals annually). Frank’s teams are pragmatic but attack-minded, balancing flair with discipline.
Fit: Frank’s style is less flamboyant than Postecoglou’s but still aligns with Tottenham’s desire for attacking football. His adaptability could address Tottenham’s defensive frailties, exposed under Postecoglou (18 losses in 2024/25).
Youth Development:
Frank has a strong record of developing young players, such as Ivan Toney (from League One to England international) and Keane Lewis-Potter (21, winger). Brentford’s B-team system under Frank has produced talents like Ryan Trevitt and Yehor Yarmolyuk, who transitioned to the first team.
His focus on a clear tactical identity helps young players integrate, which would suit Tottenham’s young squad.
Pros:
Extensive Premier League experience with a smaller club, proving he can punch above his weight.
Adaptable tactician who balances attacking intent with defensive structure.
Proven ability to develop young players and work within a data-driven recruitment model, aligning with Tottenham’s approach.
Cons:
His pragmatic style may not fully satisfy fans expecting the flair of “Angeball” or Pochettino’s Tottenham.
Long contract with Brentford could require a significant compensation fee.
Why a Fit?: Frank’s Premier League pedigree and ability to develop players make him a safe, realistic choice. His pragmatic approach could stabilize Tottenham while maintaining an attacking edge, though he may need to adapt to fan expectations for more expansive football.
4. Edin Terzić (Unattached)
Current Role and Availability: Terzić, aged 42, is currently unattached after leaving Borussia Dortmund in June 2024 following a Champions League final appearance. He reportedly turned down Besiktas, with sources claiming he was waiting for an agreement with Tottenham, making him a strong candidate for summer 2025.
Playing Style and Tottenham DNA:
Formation: Terzić typically employs a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3, focusing on high pressing, quick transitions, and exploiting wide areas. Dortmund under Terzić in 2022/23 averaged 52% possession and led the Bundesliga in high turnovers.
Attacking Philosophy: His Dortmund side scored 81 goals in the 2022/23 Bundesliga season, with an emphasis on dynamic wing play (e.g., Donyell Malen, Karim Adeyemi) and a high-pressing game (PPDA around 10.5). His teams are known for intensity and attacking intent, fitting Tottenham’s DNA.
Fit: Terzić’s high-energy, attacking style aligns closely with Postecoglou’s philosophy and Tottenham’s expectations for entertaining football. His Champions League experience adds a pedigree that could elevate Tottenham’s ambitions.
Youth Development:
Terzić is renowned for developing young talents at Dortmund, including Jude Bellingham (17–20 years old during Terzić’s tenure), Youssoufa Moukoko (16–18), and Jamie Bynoe-Gittens (18–20). His trust in youth helped Dortmund reach the 2024 Champions League final.
His experience with Dortmund’s youth-focused model would translate well to Tottenham’s academy-driven approach, nurturing players like Bergvall and Odobert.
Pros:
Proven at a high level with Dortmund, including a Champions League final.
High-pressing, attacking style that matches Tottenham’s DNA.
Strong track record with young players, ideal for Tottenham’s youthful squad.
Unattached, reducing compensation costs and making him immediately available.
Cons:
Limited Premier League experience, which could require an adjustment period.
Inconsistent domestic results at Dortmund (e.g., losing the 2022/23 Bundesliga title on the final day) raise questions about his ability to handle pressure.
Why a Fit?: Terzić’s attacking philosophy, youth development expertise, and European experience make him an exciting, high-potential option. His availability and reported interest in Tottenham make him a realistic target.
Honorable Mention: Mauricio Pochettino (United States Men’s National Team)
Current Role: Pochettino, aged 53, is managing the USMNT, a role he took in 2024. He has been linked with a Tottenham return, having expressed openness to it in 2022. However, his commitment to the USMNT until the 2026 World Cup makes a summer 2025 move less realistic unless he negotiates an early exit.
Playing Style and Tottenham DNA: Pochettino’s 4-2-3-1 and high-pressing, attacking football are the gold standard for Tottenham’s DNA, as seen during his 2014–2019 tenure (Champions League final 2019). His style would be a seamless fit.
Youth Development: He developed Harry Kane, Dele Alli, and Eric Dier into stars, making him ideal for Tottenham’s young squad.
Why Not Primary?: His USMNT contract and the unlikelihood of leaving before 2026 reduce his availability. However, his past success at Tottenham makes him a dream candidate if circumstances change.
Recommendation and Deep Analysis Plan
As sporting director, I would prioritize Kieran McKenna and Edin Terzić for deeper analysis due to their alignment with Tottenham’s attacking DNA, proven youth development, and realistic availability:
McKenna: His Premier League experience, youth coaching background, and success with Ipswich’s attacking style make him a long-term fit. I would analyze his tactical adaptability in the Premier League, his ability to handle Tottenham’s high-pressure environment, and his recruitment preferences to ensure squad fit.
Terzić: His Champions League pedigree and unattached status make him highly attainable. I would evaluate his ability to adapt to the Premier League’s intensity, his integration of Tottenham’s young players, and his handling of fan expectations for expansive football.
Next Steps:
Tactical Analysis: Review match footage from McKenna’s Ipswich (2023/24 Championship) and Terzić’s Dortmund (2022/23 Bundesliga) to assess how their systems would translate to Tottenham’s squad, particularly for players like Kulusevski, Bergvall, and Son.
Player Development Plans: Request detailed reports from both managers on how they would integrate Tottenham’s young talents (e.g., Bergvall, Gray, Odobert) and academy prospects.
Cultural Fit: Conduct interviews to gauge their alignment with Tottenham’s fanbase and board expectations, focusing on their vision for attacking football and academy links.
Contract and Feasibility: Assess McKenna’s release clause with Ipswich and confirm Terzić’s availability, ensuring no unforeseen barriers (e.g., compensation disputes).
Conclusion
Kieran McKenna and Edin Terzić stand out as the most realistic and exciting candidates to replace Postecoglou, offering attacking football and youth development expertise that align with Tottenham’s DNA. Andoni Iraola and Thomas Frank are strong alternatives with Premier League experience, while Pochettino remains a long shot due to his USMNT role. McKenna’s familiarity with Tottenham’s academy and Terzić’s European pedigree make them my top two for deeper analysis, with a slight edge to McKenna for his English football experience and long-term potential.
Someone that promotes youth players and is tactically flexible please
