On March 30, 2026, Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur officially announced that interim head coach Igor Tudor has been relieved of his duties.
The decision comes as little surprise, given the team’s recent poor run of form and their increasingly precarious position in the league standings.
As the season enters its final stretch, Tottenham sit just one point above the relegation zone. Under such pressure, the club must act quickly to appoint a new manager who can stabilize the squad and secure its Premier League status.
Top Candidate: De Zerbi Leads the Race as Spurs Push for Early Appointment
Among the potential successors, Italian coach Roberto De Zerbi has emerged as the leading candidate. De Zerbi previously impressed during his time in the Premier League, where his tactical philosophy and attacking style earned widespread praise. He also continued to deliver strong results during his stint in France.
Currently without a club, De Zerbi appears to be an accessible option. However, a key obstacle remains: he has publicly stated a preference to take over a new team in the summer rather than mid-season.
Given Tottenham’s urgent need to avoid relegation, the club is actively attempting to persuade him to take charge immediately. Should negotiations fail, Spurs may be forced to appoint another interim manager to guide the team through the remainder of the campaign.
Other Candidates Under Consideration
In addition to De Zerbi, Austrian coach Adi Hütter is also on the shortlist.
The 56-year-old has built a solid reputation across European football, having managed clubs such as Eintracht Frankfurt, Borussia Mönchengladbach, and AS Monaco with notable success. Reports suggest that Tottenham have already initiated contact, though talks remain inconclusive.
Meanwhile, English manager Sean Dyche has also been considered. Known for his pragmatic and disciplined approach, Dyche has previously managed Burnley FC, Everton FC, and Nottingham Forest FC.
However, Tottenham reportedly views him primarily as a short-term solution, an option Dyche has already declined.
Internal Options and Club Legends: Mason and Keane in the Frame
If Tottenham opt for a candidate familiar with the club’s internal structure, Ryan Mason represents a logical and reliable choice. Mason has previously stepped in during periods of crisis, notably securing four wins in seven matches during his 2019 interim spell, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure.
Another name attracting attention is club legend Robbie Keane. Currently managing Hungarian giants Ferencvárosi TC, Keane has already achieved domestic success by winning the league title. While his managerial experience is still developing, his strong connection to the club and leadership profile make him an intriguing option.
High-Stakes Finish: Spurs Cannot Afford Any Mistakes
Regardless of who takes over, time is not on Tottenham’s side. With only seven league matches remaining and just a one-point cushion above the relegation zone, every fixture is effectively a must-win.
In such a high-pressure scenario, the incoming manager must quickly restore confidence, implement effective tactical adjustments, and deliver immediate results.
For Tottenham, this is more than just a managerial change; it is a high-risk gamble that could define the club’s immediate future. Failure to halt their downward spiral could see this historic Premier League side facing one of its most serious crises in recent years.
