Just 16 days after lifting the Europa League trophy in Bilbao and bringing Tottenham Hotspur their first silverware in 17 years, manager Ange Postecoglou has been sacked.
The club announced the Australian coach’s departure on Friday June 6, thanking Ange for his efforts but stating that a change was needed to move forward, with poor domestic form cited as the main reason.
“We have made what we believe is the right decision to give us the best chance of success going forward, not the easy decision,” the club said.
Despite the historic moment, Spurs had a nightmare Premier League campaign under Ange finishing 17th, losing 22 games, and recording their lowest-ever points total.
Tottenham’s season under Postecoglou began well, with the manager winning three consecutive Premier League Manager of the Month awards as Spurs went unbeaten in their first 10 games.
However, the momentum quickly changed. A growing injury list, key suspensions, and Ange’s relentless high-line approach began to take a heavy toll on the team.
In 2024, Spurs managed only a few league wins and suffered painful derby defeats to both Arsenal and Chelsea.
The tension peaked at Stamford Bridge, where Postecoglou cupped his ears toward the travelling supporters showing how fractured the relationship had become.
Even so, the Europa League run gave fans something to hold onto. After beating several top European sides along the way, Spurs edged Manchester United 1-0 in the final, securing their first European trophy since 1984.
“We’re still building this team,” Postecoglou said after the win in Bilbao. “I don’t feel like I’ve completed the job.”
The Australian had famously declared earlier in the season, following a loss to Arsenal, “I always win things in my second year.” And he delivered but ultimately, it wasn’t enough.
“Whilst winning the Europa League ranks as one of the Club’s greatest moments, we cannot base our decision on emotions aligned to this triumph,” Spurs said in their statement.
Brentford boss Thomas Frank is reportedly the leading candidate to replace him, with negotiations expected to begin soon.
For Ange, it’s a harsh end with a dramatic two-year spell that brought both silverware and struggle.