Tottenham eyes Pochettino return or Iraola hire: what’s next after Postecoglou?

Tottenham Hotspur has parted ways with manager Ange Postecoglou just 16 days after he led the club to its first trophy in 17 years by winning the Europa League. Despite this historic achievement, the club's board, led by chairman Daniel Levy, cited the team's 17th-place Premier League finish and a record 22 defeats as reasons for the dismissal.

Postecoglou's tenure was marked by a high-risk playing style that delivered silverware but failed to secure consistent league success. The club statement emphasized, "Whilst winning the Europa League this season ranks as one of the club's greatest moments, we cannot base our decision on emotions aligned to this triumph."

The Australian manager expressed pride in his turbulent spell, stating he had "defied the odds by ending the club's trophy drought" and believes the foundations laid will help Spurs achieve future success.

Looking ahead, Tottenham is reportedly considering a managerial return for Mauricio Pochettino, who was sacked six years ago but recently expressed a desire to come back, calling Spurs "a special club for me." Another strong candidate is Andoni Iraola, whose high-intensity tactics have propelled Bournemouth to challenge for European qualification, with notable wins over top Premier League teams.

The club faces a critical juncture as it seeks to balance the pursuit of silverware with the need for sustained Premier League performance, aiming to avoid the pitfalls of last season's disappointing finish despite continental success.

Key quotes:
"What a stupid game football is!" - Alan Shearer
"But money over glory sums up the owner, Daniel Levy, doesn't it?" - Sutton

Stats:
- 22 Premier League defeats, a record for a non-relegated team
- 17th place finish in the Premier League
- First European trophy since 1984
- Europa League win 1-0 over Manchester United

This managerial change underscores Tottenham's ambition to find a leader capable of delivering both trophies and consistent league success.

Tottenham Hotspur has dismissed manager Ange Postecoglou despite winning the Europa League, their first trophy in 17 years. The club is reportedly considering a return for Mauricio Pochettino or hiring Andoni Iraola as they seek sustained Premier League success after a disappointing 17th-place finish.