The Croat Leaves: Who Will Be Appointed to Save Tottenham From Relegation in 2026?
It comes as no surprise that Igor Tudor has decided, by mutual consensus, to jump off the sinking ship that Tottenham has become. Sole blame for what has become of the Spurs should definitely not fall upon the Croat’s shoulders, who knew that the task to re-orient Tottenham was not going to be an easy one. However, Tudor was not very helpful in saving what is left of the north London team either. With the looming presence of relegation hanging over the Spurs, fans can only wonder who will be brave enough to take on the challenge of rescuing the team. Rumors have been circulating for some time, sparking controversy among fans.
Tottenham in Crisis Mode as Managerial Search Begins
The first name that pops up on the list of potential contenders is Roberto De Zerbi, the Italian who last managed the Ligue 1 team Marseille. His name has upset more than one Spurs fan, who consider De Zerbi to not be fit for the role after his declarations supporting Mason Greenwood, the ex-Manchester United player who was arrested for attempted rape, coercive and controlling behavior, and assault in England back in 2022. The Englishman did not play for United after the events and transferred to Marseille in 2024. De Zerbi has been known for backing the player on multiple occasions, something that several fan groups consider unacceptable. Proud Lilywhites, the Spurs LGBTQI+ fan community released a statement on Instagram two days ago that demanded a “Leadership that reflects the values this club claims to stand for.” A “No to De Zerbi” movement has been forming amongst other minority-identifying Tottenham fan groups who have also stated their rejection of the Italian manager.
Fan Backlash Grows Over Roberto De Zerbi Links
Another name that has been brought up is Mauricio Pochettino, who has garnered the attention and support of the fans. The US national team coach seems otherwise preoccupied this season, with the World Cup taking place in just over two months. The Argentine manager seems unlikely to take on the role, his season’s schedule looking unrealistically busy for him to take charge of the Spurs. Sean Dyche has also come up as a possible choice, the former Nottingham Forest head coach who is available for an immediate start. The 54-year-old has coached three Premier League teams before, leaving Nottingham 17th in the table, just above the relegation zone, this season.
Pochettino Dream Unlikely as Other Candidates Emerge
Tottenham now sits behind Nottingham Forest in the Premier League table, one dreadful point above relegation. The team has not won a single game in 2026, which marks 13 matches without a victory. Tottenham’s fate seems to mimic a slowly sinking vessel, as they try to find a coach who will keep them floating above relegation. No doubt the next managerial decision will be a very important one. De Zerbi has been reluctant to take over the club immediately, as he prefers to wait and see if the Spurs remain in the Premier League. Such an attitude is not that of a savior, which should be encouragement enough to search for a more willing alternative.
