Tottenham Consider Mauricio Pochettino Return Amid Relegation Battle and Thomas Frank Exit
Tottenham Hotspur have shown interest in reappointing Mauricio Pochettino as head coach after parting ways with Thomas Frank. The club currently occupy 16th place in the league standings and are just five points ahead of West Ham United in 18th. Any move to bring Pochettino back may not happen until after the 2026 World Cup due to his current role as United States men’s national team manager.
Tottenham want Mauricio Pochettino back after removing Thomas Frank, but his current USA national team duties may prevent a quick return before the 2026 World Cup.
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The Telegraph reports that Spurs would like Pochettino to return following Frank’s departure, although timing could be complicated by the international tournament. The Argentine previously managed Tottenham between 2014 and 2019. During his tenure, he led the team to the Champions League final and mounted more than one Premier League title push. He also guided one of the strongest Tottenham sides in recent history to an unbeaten home season during the club’s final campaign at White Hart Lane. Fans recently sang his name during the loss to Newcastle.
The Tottenham board reportedly recognise the strong connection supporters still have with the former Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain coach. However, it remains unclear whether Pochettino would consider returning if Spurs were relegated. Sources reportedly told the newspaper he would “walk back to the club” if invited to return.
The club may appoint a temporary manager first, following the example of Manchester United, who turned to Michael Carrick after Ruben Amorim was dismissed. Former Tottenham striker Robbie Keane has been discussed as an option, although he is currently working under contract with Hungarian side Ferencvaros. He is viewed as the closest comparison to Carrick. Internally, John Heitinga is another option after joining Frank’s staff last month. Tottenham are expected to target an external appointment, leaving Heitinga’s future uncertain while potentially strengthening Keane’s chances.
Reports have also linked Tottenham with Roberto De Zerbi, who recently left Marseille after previously managing Brighton. Since he only exited the French club this week, it is uncertain whether he would be ready to return immediately or if Spurs have made contact. The club has also previously shown interest in Oliver Glasner, Andoni Iraola, and Marco Silva.
Tottenham issued a statement confirming Frank’s immediate exit rather than presenting it as mutual consent. The statement explained the club decided to make a change to the Men’s Head Coach role and confirmed Frank would leave immediately. It also highlighted that he was appointed in June 2025 and was given time and backing to build for the future, but performances and results forced the board to act during the season. The club thanked Frank for his efforts and wished him well.
Frank’s position had become increasingly difficult due to poor form. Tottenham have not won a league game in 2026, with their last victory coming on December 28, a 1-0 away win against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. With 12 matches remaining, their next game is against Arsenal, which could be overseen by a new interim manager.
Tottenham also confirmed winger Wilson Odobert will miss the remainder of the season after suffering an ACL injury against Newcastle. Spurs now face a crucial fixture against table-toppers Arsenal. A victory would boost Tottenham’s survival hopes while potentially damaging Arsenal’s title charge. Arsenal currently lead the league, and Frank was reportedly heavily focused on Tottenham’s north London rivals prior to his dismissal.
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