Tottenham Hotspur are embarking on a critical managerial search after parting ways with head coach Thomas Frank on 11 February 2026, marking another seismic shift in North London’s turbulent season. The Premier League outfit announced Frank’s dismissal following a damaging 2-1 defeat to Newcastle United, which plunged Spurs to 16th place in the league with relegation fears looming. The decision cements a dramatic chapter in Tottenham’s season, forcing the club to urgently consider who can be the next Tottenham Hotspur manager — a question dominating football headlines and fan discussions globally.
Spurs now face a pivotal period with 11 days before their next Premier League match against Arsenal, creating urgency in their managerial recruitment strategy. Interim options are expected to bridge the immediate gap, but long-term plans are already emerging with several high-profile candidates being linked to the position. Below, we examine the top three contenders most frequently mentioned in current reports, analysing their fit, availability, and likelihood of taking the managerial reins at Tottenham Hotspur.
Mauricio Pochettino: Fans’ Favourite and Nostalgic Front-Runner
Mauricio Pochettino remains one of the most talked-about names in the race to succeed Frank. A beloved figure among Tottenham supporters for guiding the club to its first ever UEFA Champions League final, Pochettino’s potential return has been a central narrative in discussions across media outlets.
Currently managing the United States men’s national team, Pochettino faces commitments at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he has publicly expressed admiration for his Tottenham tenure and connection with fans. Reports suggest his USMNT contract is set to expire this summer, making him available for a potential mid-season or summer return — an option that would excite Spurs faithful keen on rekindling the club’s identity.
Advantages of a Pochettino appointment include his deep understanding of Spurs culture, tactical familiarity, and strong rapport with the fanbase. However, the timing — balancing a World Cup run and national team duties — makes an immediate appointment complex. If Spurs can bridge that gap, Pochettino could be the most galvanising choice to stabilise a successor era.
Roberto De Zerbi: Bookmakers’ Favourite and Tactical Innovator
Italian coach Roberto De Zerbi has quickly become a front-runner to become next Tottenham manager in betting markets and pundit speculation since leaving Olympique de Marseille. Several outlets list De Zerbi as one of the early favourites to take over the Tottenham managerial helm, thanks to his tactical acumen, modern playing style, and success in domestic leagues.
De Zerbi’s coaching philosophy emphasises possession-based football, dynamic pressing, and intelligent build-up play — traits that align well with the profile of a club seeking to rejuvenate its attacking identity. His availability and prior links to Spurs’ shortlist make him a credible contender in both the short and long term. The Italian has been praised for his work with Brighton & Hove Albion and Marseille, improving both teams’ competitiveness in demanding leagues.
Critically, De Zerbi’s willingness to take over a struggling side mid-season, as pundits have debated, is uncertain, but his name continues to dominate conversations as Spurs seek a long-term solution.
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Oliver Glasner: Emerging Contender With Premier League Experience
Another strong contender is Austrian manager Oliver Glasner, currently out of contract and widely expected to attract interest from top clubs. Glasner’s impressive managerial resume in the English game has made him a leading candidate for Tottenham, especially given his work at Crystal Palace, where he delivered consistent performances and led historic cup success.
Supporters and analysts alike view Glasner as someone who could maximise Spurs’ existing squad while gradually implementing his tactical vision. He is seen as a coach capable of balancing defensive organisation with creative attacking moves — a combination Tottenham desperately require as they navigate a perilous Premier League campaign.
In addition to these three, other figures such as Marco Silva, Andoni Iraola and even club legend Robbie Keane are mentioned in betting markets and fan forums. Some discussions also suggest interim appointments, including assistant coach John Heitinga, could temporarily fill the void before a permanent hire is secured.
What Happens Next? Spurs Strategise Amid Relegation Fight
Tottenham’s managerial vacuum comes at a crucial juncture in their season. The club’s current position in the Premier League table highlights the importance of a decisive appointment, not only to avoid a relegation battle but to rebuild confidence and playing style. The timing of this managerial change — sandwiched between league concerns and global tournament calendars — compounds the complexity of the decision facing Spurs’ leadership.
While interim leadership will likely take training and matchday responsibilities in the short term, the broader question of who will be the next Tottenham Hotspur manager continues to dominate headlines. With names like Mauricio Pochettino, Roberto De Zerbi, and Oliver Glasner leading the conversation, Tottenham’s choice in the coming weeks could reshape their trajectory both domestically and in Europe.
For the latest in Tottenham Hotspur managerial news, continue following updates from The Dakia as clubs, agents, and potential candidates negotiate what could be one of the most consequential appointments in Spurs history.
