Why Did Tottenham Hotspur Dismiss Ange Postecoglou After Europa League Victory?

Synopsis
In an unexpected turn of events, Tottenham Hotspur has terminated Ange Postecoglou's contract just weeks after winning the Europa League. What led to this surprising decision despite a historic achievement?
Key Takeaways
- Ange Postecoglou was dismissed 16 days after winning the Europa League.
- Tottenham's league performance led to his termination.
- He ended the club's 17-year trophy drought.
- Spurs are searching for their fifth manager in six years.
- Thomas Frank is reportedly the leading candidate for the job.
London, June 6 (NationPress) Tottenham Hotspur have parted ways with Ange Postecoglou, just 16 days after their remarkable victory against Manchester United in the Europa League final, marking their first European trophy in 41 years.
Ange joined the Spurs from Celtic in the summer of 2023 and ended the North London club’s 17-year trophy drought by leading them to UEFA Europa League triumph in Bilbao.
However, that achievement was not sufficient for the Australian manager to retain his position, especially after overseeing the team’s worst Premier League finish, concluding the 2024-25 campaign in 17th place with 11 wins, five draws, and 22 losses.
“Reflecting on my time as manager of Tottenham Hotspur, I feel an overwhelming sense of pride. The chance to lead one of England's prestigious football clubs and restore its glory will stay with me forever. Sharing this journey with true fans and witnessing its impact is unforgettable. That night in Bilbao represented the culmination of two years filled with dedication and belief in a dream,” Postecoglou stated.
After his inaugural season, Postecoglou confidently told the media that he typically delivers silverware in his second season at a new club.
He fulfilled that promise by securing the Europa League for a team that has struggled to compete for significant honors. The unexpected decision came after he had assured Tottenham fans that ‘Season 3 is always better than Season 2’ during their victory parade.
Postecoglou’s departure marks the appointment of Spurs’ fifth permanent manager in six years since Mauricio Pochettino left in 2019. Reports suggest that Thomas Frank from Brentford is the leading candidate for the position.
“After reviewing performances and considerable reflection, the Club announces that Ange Postecoglou has been relieved of his duties. We are immensely grateful for his commitment and contributions during his two-year tenure. He will always be remembered as just the third manager in our history to win a European trophy, alongside legends Bill Nicholson and Keith Burkinshaw.
“After a positive start to the 2023/24 Premier League season, Spurs accumulated 78 points from the last 66 Premier League games, leading to their worst-ever finish. While there were mitigating factors, such as injuries and prioritizing our European campaign, winning the Europa League this season is one of the Club’s greatest moments, but our decision cannot be solely based on emotions from this triumph,” the club’s statement concluded.