Major Frank Upgrade: Tottenham Eye ‘World’s Best Manager’ as Talks Are Set to Begin
Major Frank Upgrade: Tottenham Target ‘World’s Best Manager’ as Talks Loom
Thomas Frank has had to publicly state this week that he still has the backing of Tottenham’s board, but needing to give such assurances less than six months into the job hardly reflects well on how things have gone so far.
Spurs are struggling with three straight defeats and only one win in their last seven matches ahead of a difficult trip to Newcastle on Tuesday night. Another poor result would push Frank even closer to the brink.
Brought in over the summer to succeed the well-liked Ange Postecoglou, Frank was expected to boost competitiveness and embed his own philosophy in a squad accustomed to a high-intensity, pressing approach. Instead, performances have been flat, and results have followed suit.
There is still time for him to steady the situation, but right now it appears his tenure could already be reaching its final stages. Naturally, attention has shifted toward potential successors.
Tottenham Linked With Xavi
According to Fichajes, Spurs’ hierarchy are seriously considering a change if results don’t improve by the end of December, with former Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez emerging as a candidate.
They may have to battle Manchester United, who are again looking at Ruben Amorim, but Xavi is seen by both clubs as an ideal figure to lead a new era. His tactical style, trust in young players and top-level experience make him a strong fit for Premier League football.
The 45-year-old has been unemployed since his Barcelona dismissal and reportedly wants a “stable project” for his next role—something both Tottenham and United can offer. Although there has been no direct contact yet, he remains an appealing option.
Why Tottenham Should Pursue Xavi
Frank’s tenure has struggled from the outset. His Brentford sides were known for attractive football, but implementing expansive, front-foot play at a club like Spurs—where Postecoglou had strongly shaped expectations—is a far greater challenge.
Xavi would bring more control, fluid passing and an aesthetically pleasing style reminiscent of his Barcelona tenure. He has also shown he can deliver trophies, winning LaLiga in 2022–23 despite Barca’s financial turmoil. At Spurs, he would swiftly begin building towards ambitious goals, including potentially challenging for the Premier League and domestic cups.
As a player, he won the World Cup, four Champions Leagues and eight LaLiga titles, and he carries that same ambition as a manager. That pedigree would suit a Tottenham side that has gone far too long without success.
Recent reports claim Frank is losing parts of the dressing room—something that often leads to a swift dismissal. Xavi, meanwhile, would likely command instant respect due to his decorated career and his willingness to trust young talent, as shown when he handed Lamine Yamal his debut at just 15.
His reliance on width and incisive attacking patterns also suggests he could revitalise Xavi Simons, who has had a shaky start at Spurs. The Dutchman appears far better suited to Xavi’s footballing philosophy than Frank’s.
Xavi Labelled the ‘Best Manager in the World’
Before letting him go, Barcelona president Joan Laporta described Xavi as the “best manager in the world,” praising his optimism, calmness and deep connection to the club. Laporta highlighted his confidence in Xavi’s methods and the pride he felt having a true Barcelona figure leading the team.
