Pochettino Back to Spurs? Club Plans Interim Amid Crisis

Pochettino Back to Spurs? Club Plans Interim Amid Crisis

Arthur Jones
Arthur Jones
Published: Feb 11, 2026

Tottenham Hotspur are interested in reappointing Mauricio Pochettino as head coach after sacking Thomas Frank. The club languish just outside the relegation zone, in 16th, just five points clear of West Ham United in 18th. They may have to wait until after the 2026 World Cup, however, to extricate Pochettino from his current job as the United States' men's national team manager.

The Prodigal Son's Potential Return

The echoes of Mauricio Pochettino's name being sung by the Tottenham faithful during their recent defeat to Newcastle weren't just nostalgia; they were a desperate call. Fans remember the five-year spell (2014-2019) when Pochettino transformed the club, guiding them to a Champions League final and spearheading multiple title challenges.

His final season at White Hart Lane famously saw one of the best Spurs teams of the modern era achieve an unbeaten home campaign. The board in North London is acutely aware of this sentiment, yet the Argentine's current commitment as the United States Men's National Team manager means a direct return might be stalled until after the 2026 World Cup.

Intriguingly, sources suggest Pochettino "would walk back to the club" if asked, but the prospect of managing a relegated side remains an unspoken hurdle. The emotional connection is undeniable, but the reality of **Tottenham**'s precarious league position could complicate any immediate homecoming.

Navigating the Interim Void: Keane & Other Contenders

With a long-term reunion potentially far off, **Spurs** are now scrambling for an interim solution. The club is reportedly considering former striker **Robbie Keane** as a stop-gap manager, a move reminiscent of **Manchester United**'s appointment of Michael Carrick. Keane, currently with Hungarian club **Ferencvaros**, represents a fan-favourite option who understands the club's DNA.

While **John Heitinga**, already part of **Frank**'s coaching staff, is an internal option, the preference is for an external figure. This situation could significantly boost Keane's chances. Beyond the interim, names like **Roberto De Zerbi**, recently departed from Marseille, **Oliver Glasner**, **Andoni Iraola**, and **Marco Silva** have also been linked, highlighting the breadth of **Tottenham**'s search.

From Dream to Dread: Unpacking Spurs' Crisis

The official statement confirming **Thomas Frank**'s departure made it clear: this was a sacking, not a mutual agreement. The club's candour reflects the severity of their predicament. **Spurs** have failed to secure a single league victory in **2026**, with their last win dating back to December 28 against **Crystal Palace**.

This disastrous form has left them languishing in 16th place, a mere five points above the relegation zone. Compounding their woes, winger **Wilson Odobert** has been ruled out for the rest of the season with an ACL tear, further depleting an already struggling squad. With 12 games remaining, the new manager faces an immediate uphill battle.

Derby Day Inferno: Arsenal Await

The true baptism of fire for **Tottenham**'s new interim manager will come against none other than bitter rivals **Arsenal**. The **North London Derby** is always charged, but this time, the stakes are astronomically high. **Arsenal** currently sit top of the table, making the fixture a brutal test for a team desperately short on confidence and points.

The previous manager, **Thomas Frank**, was reportedly