Tottenham Hotspur will move for free agent manager after Thomas Frank dismissal

LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 10: Thomas Frank manager / head coach of Tottenham Hotspur after the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on February 10, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images)
Thomas Frank after his final game in charge of Spurs (Image credit: Getty Images)

Tottenham Hotspur have sacked manager Thomas Frank following the team's eighth straight fixture without a win.

Spurs were plunged into a relegation battle in midweek as the club were beaten by Newcastle United at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Spurs plan interim appointment after Frank sacking

LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 10: Thomas Frank, Manager of Tottenham Hotspur, gives the team instructions during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on February 10, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Steve Bardens/Getty Images)

Spurs have sacked Frank (Image credit: Getty Images)

Frank expressed in his post-match media interviews that he still believed he was the right man to take Tottenham forward, a view not shared by the club's hierarchy. Twelve hours after the final whistle, Frank had been relieved of his duties.

Spurs are now looking for a new manager and are expected to hold exploratory talks with the newly-jobless Roberto De Zerbi.

Marseille coach Roberto De Zerbi gives instructions to his players during a friendly against Sunderland in August 2024.

Roberto De Zerbi in charge of Marseille, August 2024 (Image credit: Getty Images)

The Italian coach left Olympique Marseille earlier this week after their defeat by Paris Saint-Germain. It followed the team's elimination from the Champions League at the league phase stage of the competition late last month.

De Zerbi has previously managed in England, representing Brighton and Hove Albion between 2022 and 2024.

The 46-year-old has subsequently been linked with a Premier League return, to take charge at Spurs who sit just five points above the drop zone.

Tottenham have 11 days before the North London Derby against Arsenal, in what will be their next competitive outing, and it is thought this break in the schedule has motivated the Spurs board to make the change in the dugout.

According to the Daily Telegraph, no decision has been taken on an interim boss yet, although De Zerbi is likely to be on the shortlist of potential long-term replacements given he will not need to be bought out of his Marseille contract any longer.

Get VIP tickets to see Spurs in their new era HERE with Seat Unique!

Get VIP tickets to see Spurs in their new era HERE with Seat Unique!

Tottenham Hotspur hospitality offers a diverse range of premium experiences, from vibrant social lounges to private boxes. Packages include premium padded seating in prime locations, exclusive lounge access pre- and post-match, gourmet dining, and a complimentary drinks package. Guests may also enjoy live entertainment and Spurs legend appearances.

De Zerbi won 39 of his 69 matches in charge of the French club, but had reportedly fallen out with the dressing room by the end of his tenure.

Spurs are likely to appoint an interim coach ahead of their fixture with Arsenal, while the board work on a more permanent replacement.

Joe Donnohue
Senior Digital Writer

Joe joined FourFourTwo as senior digital writer in July 2025 after five years covering Leeds United in the Championship and Premier League. Joe's 'Mastermind' specialist subject is 2000s-era Newcastle United having had a season ticket at St. James' Park for 10 years before relocating to Leeds and later London. Joe takes a keen interest in youth football, covering PL2, U21 Euros, as well as U20 and U17 World Cups in the past, in addition to hosting the industry-leading football recruitment-focused SCOUTED podcast. He is also one of the lucky few to have 'hit top bins' as a contestant on Soccer AM. It wasn't a shin-roller.

You must confirm your public display name before commenting

Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.