Tottenham manager search narrows as fan favourite eyes dramatic return

Mauricio Pochettino and Roberto De Zerbi have emerged as the leading contenders to become Tottenham’s permanent manager next summer following the appointment of interim boss Igor Tudor.

Focus shifts to long-term successor

The north London club recently confirmed Tudor would steer the ship until the end of the 2025-26 campaign.

This decision allows the board crucial time to assess long-term options following the dismissal of Thomas Frank.

However, speculation is already mounting regarding who will take the reins permanently when contracts expire across world football this summer.

Two-horse race for Spurs hotseat

GIVEMESPORT reports that the hierarchy at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium have whittled their wishlist down to two primary targets.

Former Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi is currently weighing up his future after departing Marseille just hours before the vacancy at Spurs opened up.

But the Italian faces stiff competition from a figure synonymous with Tottenham’s modern history.

Pochettino’s ‘unfinished business’

Mauricio Pochettino, currently leading the USA national team towards a home World Cup in 2026, sees his contract expire at the tournament’s conclusion.

The Argentine remains a beloved figure in N17 and reportedly retains significant support within the club’s corridors.

Having guided the Lilywhites to a Champions League final, the 52-year-old has previously spoken of his desire to claim the silverware that eluded him during his first five-year spell.

Pep Guardiola has previously described the South American as “top class”, underlining the pedigree he would bring back to the Premier League.

De Zerbi offers fiery alternative

De Zerbi presents a contrasting option, known for a combustible temperament that draws comparisons to former Spurs boss Antonio Conte.

The tactician is also attracting interest elsewhere, with Manchester United potentially entering the market for his services.

While his aggressive style might ruffle feathers, some argue his passion is exactly what a driftless Spurs squad requires.

Risk of a romantic reunion

While the romance of a Pochettino return appeals to supporters who chanted his name during Frank’s final match against Newcastle, history warns against going back.

Returning to a club in need of a significant uplift could threaten the legacy of the man who transformed the club between 2014 and 2019.

Other names, including Crystal Palace’s Oliver Glasner and Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola, remain in the frame as their contracts also wind down.