Tottenham ‘draw up three-man shortlist’ to replace Thomas Frank and stance on interim boss | Football | Sport

Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly settled on a three-man shortlist of managers following the sacking of Thomas Frank, who lasted fewer than 250 days in charge. Frank was let go by the capital club following Spurs’ 11th league defeat of the season against Newcastle United on Tuesday evening. 

It leaves the 2025 Europa League champions lurking just above the relegation zone, and even though they’ve made it into the Champions League knockouts, it represents very little progress from last season. Under Frank’s predecessor, Ange Postecoglou, Spurs recorded their lowest-ever Premier League finish.

It leaves Tottenham in a tricky position, with their owners contemplating whether they want to hire a replacement mid-season, or wait until the summer to correct their Frank error. According to The Telegraph, Roberto De Zerbi is one name that has made it onto the initial shortlist, with the Italian having just left Ligue 1 side Marseille.

The former Brighton head honcho does boast Premier League experience, which can’t be said of Roy Keane, who is also mooted as a potential successor. Keane, who was a fan favourite during his playing days with Tottenham, has gained managerial experience during his time with Maccabi Tel Aviv and then current club Ferencvaros.

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The report states Spurs aren’t looking to hire internally and would prefer an outsider to take over, but aren’t set on whether that will be on a full-time basis, or until the end of the season. By appointing an interim, it could allow them to hold out for Mauricio Pochettino, who is currently in charge of the United States national team.

Pochettino, who guided Spurs to the Champions League final in 2019, is set to take charge of the co-hosts at this summer’s World Cup. But it’s suggested Pochettino’s stint with the USMNT might not stretch beyond the summer, opening the door up to a potential Spurs return.

Astatement from Spurs announcing Frank’s exit read: “The club has taken the decision to make a change in the men’s head coach position and Thomas Frank will leave today. Thomas was appointed in June 2025, and we have been determined to give him the time and support needed to build for the future together.

“However, results and performances have led the board to conclude that a change at this point in the season is necessary. Throughout his time at the club, Thomas has conducted himself with unwavering commitment, giving everything in his efforts to move the club forward. We would like to thank him for his contribution and wish him every success in the future.”