‘World’s Top Manager’ Keen on Tottenham Hotspur F.C. Role — Touted as an Upgrade on Mauricio Pochettino
Tottenham Hotspur F.C. are set to name a new permanent manager in the summer after opting to place an interim coach in charge for the remainder of the campaign.
It was confirmed on Friday that Spurs have reached a verbal agreement with Igor Tudor to oversee their final 12 Premier League fixtures, along with the rest of their Champions League schedule. The Croatian was most recently in charge of Juventus F.C. before his dismissal in October. However, the 47-year-old has developed a reputation for stepping into clubs late in the season and delivering an immediate uplift.
In his last two roles at Juventus and S.S. Lazio, he took charge in March and went unbeaten in nine Serie A matches, winning five and drawing three. While Tudor will have the chance to press his case for the full-time position, Tottenham are already considering alternative long-term options.
Pochettino and De Zerbi in the Frame
According to reports, Mauricio Pochettino and Roberto De Zerbi are the leading contenders to take over permanently this summer.
Pochettino has openly expressed his desire to return to Premier League management. Having been dismissed by Spurs in 2019 — the same year he guided them to the Champions League final — there is a belief he still has unfinished business in north London. That said, a reunion is unlikely in the immediate term, with the Argentine preparing to lead the United States at their home World Cup this summer. Supporters recently voiced their affection for him, chanting his name during the midweek defeat to Newcastle United F.C..
De Zerbi, meanwhile, has also emerged as a serious candidate following his recent departure from Olympique de Marseille. He is said to be open to discussions about Tottenham’s project, although he is aware that potential vacancies at Manchester United F.C., Manchester City F.C. and Liverpool F.C. could arise in the coming months. Some reports suggest he views Spurs as the logical next step in his managerial journey and may even prioritise them over United.
Why De Zerbi May Edge It
Although there is an emotional pull toward a Pochettino return, a more pragmatic approach might favour De Zerbi. The Argentine’s recent Premier League stint with Chelsea failed to truly ignite, and Spurs did part ways with him for a reason six years ago.
De Zerbi, by contrast, appears to be entering his prime. Despite his Marseille tenure ending, he guided them to an impressive second-place finish last season and has earned widespread admiration within the coaching community. Pep Guardiola has described him as one of the most influential managers of the past two decades, while Matias Almeyda recently labelled him the best manager in the world this season.
If Tottenham can secure an agreement with De Zerbi, choosing him over Pochettino could represent a bold but logical step — one driven by forward-thinking ambition rather than sentiment.
