Spurs eyes new replacement for Thomas Frank

January 29, 2026 Aksel Kryhlmand

Pressure grows at Tottenham

Tottenham Hotspur’s season has fallen well short of expectations, prompting growing concern inside the club’s leadership. Results have not matched preseason ambitions, and scrutiny around the head coach is increasing as the campaign progresses.

The club has not taken public action, but internal evaluations are ongoing as Tottenham assess whether their current direction remains sustainable.

Frank under mounting scrutiny

Thomas Frank’s first season in North London has proven difficult. Tottenham have managed only seven victories from 23 Premier League matches, a return that leaves them 14th in the table and far from European contention.

Frank was appointed last summer following the departure of Ange Postecoglou. While Postecoglou delivered the Europa League trophy, Tottenham’s league finish of 17th marked the worst in the club’s Premier League history, prompting a reset in the dugout.

Club officials have so far resisted making a definitive call, but the lack of improvement has intensified internal debate.

Iraola emerges as leading candidate

According to Marca, Tottenham are closely monitoring Bournemouth head coach Andoni Iraola as a potential successor should a change be made. The Spanish outlet reports that Spurs view Iraola as a high-level option capable of leading a long-term rebuild.

Marca also reports that Atletico Madrid are following Iraola’s situation, with sporting director Mateu Alemany understood to be an admirer of his work.

The same report states that Iraola’s contract at Bournemouth expires this summer, increasing the likelihood of movement at the end of the season.

Bournemouth work strengthens reputation

Iraola joined Bournemouth in 2023 and quickly elevated the club’s standing. He led the Cherries to 12th place in his first Premier League season and ninth the following year, the highest finish in the club’s top-flight history.

According to GiveMeSport, Iraola has been described as “one of the most elite coaches in world football” for his tactical approach and ability to overachieve with limited resources.

This season has been more challenging. Bournemouth currently sit 13th, one place above Tottenham, and have recorded only two wins in their last 14 league matches. Both victories came at home, including notable wins over Tottenham and Liverpool.

Wider signals from Tottenham strategy

Beyond the managerial situation, Tottenham’s activity suggests broader planning is under way. According to GiveMeSport, the club have made enquiries about Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka, whose contract expires at the end of the season.

Atletico Madrid are also monitoring Goretzka’s status, though Bayern Munich have yet to decide whether a mid-season departure would be considered. The German international has remained a regular under Vincent Kompany, with clarity expected soon.

Taken together, Tottenham’s monitoring of both elite coaching profiles and experienced players points to a club reassessing its trajectory as the season reaches a critical phase.

Sources: Marca, GiveMeSport

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