The North London coaching carousel has spun off its hinges. In a move that has shocked even the most cynical of Spurs fans, Tottenham Hotspur have officially sacked manager Thomas Frank—with reports claiming the decision was effectively finalized at half-time during Tuesday’s bruising home defeat to Newcastle.
With the club sitting in a perilous 16th place and just five points above the drop, a seven-man shortlist has emerged to lead the "great reset." While the list features heavyweights like Mauricio Pochettino and Roberto De Zerbi, it is the inclusion of one "shock name" that has sparked a social media firestorm.
The Half-Time Sack Call
The atmosphere at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium turned toxic as the first half unfolded against Newcastle. Trailing at the break and showing "zero tactical identity," executive chairman Peter Charrington and CEO Vinai Venkatesham reportedly held an emergency consultation in the tunnel.
By the time the players returned for the second half, the board had already contacted the club’s owners to endorse Frank's dismissal. The Dane leaves North London with the worst home win percentage of any Spurs boss in 20 years, punctuated by a bizarre "obsession" with praising rivals Arsenal in team meetings.
The Seven-Man Shortlist
Tottenham are wasting no time in their pursuit of a successor. The current shortlist of permanent candidates reportedly includes:
Mauricio Pochettino: The emotional favorite. Currently with the USMNT, he would likely be a summer appointment.
Roberto De Zerbi: Newly available after leaving Marseille; he is the bookmakers' current favorite.
Xavi: The former Barcelona boss is keen on a Premier League challenge.
Andoni Iraola: The Bournemouth boss is admired for his high-intensity style.
Oliver Glasner: The current Crystal Palace manager is seen as a "tactical fit."
Why Southgate?
The emergence of Gareth Southgate as a genuine contender has divided the fanbase. While many associate him with a more conservative style of play, senior figures at Spurs reportedly believe his "calmness, leadership, and elite player management" are exactly what a fractious, injury-hit dressing room needs to avoid a relegation scrap.
Southgate has been out of work since leaving the England post and provides an immediate, experienced option that wouldn't require the "interim" stop-gap many of the other targets would necessitate.
The Interim Plan
While the search for a permanent boss begins, John Heitinga is expected to take charge of first-team affairs. However, club legend Robbie Keane has also been tipped as a "left-field" interim option to provide a short-term boost in morale before the upcoming North London Derby.