Thomas Frank has been sacked by Tottenham Hotspur following a difficult start to the 2026 season. Spurs currently sit just five points above the relegation zone and have failed to win a single domestic game this year.
Despite a strong showing in the Champions League group stage, the team’s league form left the board with no choice but to make a change. Frank’s departure marks a low point statistically, as he became one of the least successful managers in the modern era for a big-six Premier League club.
Eight matches without a win highlighted the struggles under his leadership, prompting the decision from Tottenham’s board. In an official statement, Tottenham thanked Frank for his commitment and dedication. They acknowledged his effort to push the club forward but stressed that results and performances demanded a change. Frank leaves the club with best wishes from the board for his future endeavors.
Arteta Reacts to the News
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed his sympathy for Frank, calling his exit “very sad news.” Speaking at a press conference, Arteta praised Frank as an “excellent coach” and an “extraordinary man,” highlighting the mutual respect between managers in the Premier League.
Arteta emphasized that while results sometimes dictate managerial changes, the personal qualities and professionalism of a coach are equally important. He wished Frank all the best in his next role, showing solidarity despite the rivalry between Arsenal and Tottenham.
The Arsenal boss also commented on the Premier League’s high expectations for managers. He noted that context matters for each club, and a combination of player support and consistent victories is critical for any manager to maintain their position.
Read Also: Chelsea’s Frustration Over Controversial Leeds Goal
Issues in the Spurs Dressing Room
Reports suggest Frank’s admiration for Arsenal caused friction in the Tottenham dressing room. Players reportedly grew frustrated with his constant praise of Arsenal, even before and after matches. Some felt the repeated comparisons were unnecessary and distracting for the squad.
Fans also reacted negatively to Frank’s comments about Arsenal’s “Invincibles” and his casual display of an Arsenal-branded cup before a match against Bournemouth. These incidents contributed to the perception that Frank’s focus was divided and undermined his relationship with both players and supporters.
This internal tension highlights how a manager’s communication and loyalty to their club can impact both squad morale and fan support. Maintaining trust in the dressing room is crucial, especially during challenging periods in the season.
Spurs Plan for a New Manager
Tottenham are now urgently seeking a replacement, either on an interim or permanent basis, before the upcoming north London derby against Arsenal. The team has not beaten the Gunners since May 2022, making this appointment crucial for both morale and league survival.
Potential candidates include internal staff or external managers, with the club needing someone capable of stabilizing performance quickly. The choice will be critical for Spurs to regain confidence in the final stretch of the season.
As the derby approaches, the pressure is on Tottenham to find a leader who can unite the team, improve results, and restore faith among supporters. The new manager’s success will likely determine the club’s trajectory in both domestic competitions and future campaigns. Keep following other interesting football discussions only on footballcoasters.co.uk.