Spurs players ‘got sick’ of Frank’s Arsenal talk

February 12, 2026 Oliver Obel

Tension had been building at Tottenham for weeks. A winless run stretching back two months, a slide toward the bottom of the Premier League table and, according to one report, growing frustration inside the dressing room ultimately culminated in Thomas Frank’s dismissal.

The club confirmed on Wednesday that the 52-year-old had been relieved of his duties, less than a day after a 2-1 home defeat to Newcastle United. That result left Spurs sitting 16th in the standings, hovering just five points above the relegation places an uncomfortable position for a side that began the campaign with European ambitions.

Frank’s tenure lasted only eight months. Tottenham have failed to win any of their last eight league fixtures, their longest such stretch without a victory since October 2008 a statistic that underlines the scale of the downturn.

In a statement announcing the decision, Spurs said they had been “determined to give Frank the time and support needed to build for the future together,” but concluded that recent performances and results “meant a change at this point is necessary.”

The club added:
“Throughout his time at the club, Thomas has conducted himself with unwavering commitment, giving everything in his efforts to move the club forward.

“We would like to thank him for his contribution and wish him every success in the future.”

Dressing Room Frustration Reported

While results were deteriorating on the pitch, concerns may also have been growing off it. According to Telegraph Sport, some players had become frustrated by what they perceived as Frank’s repeated focus on north London rivals Arsenal.

One source told the outlet:
“He was constantly going on to the players about Arsenal and they quickly got sick of it. Even before and after the game at the Emirates, he was telling them how good Arsenal were. The feeling among some was very much ‘just shut up about Arsenal’.”

Tottenham are scheduled to host Arsenal on February 22 a derby that will now take place under different leadership. The timing adds further intrigue to an already high-pressure fixture.

Confidence Before the End

Frank had publicly backed himself to remain in charge. Speaking after the Newcastle defeat a match that proved to be his last he said:

“Yeah, I am convinced I will be.

“I understand the question. It is easy to point on me but it is never only the head coach, ownership, players or staff. It is everyone.

“Everyone knows what position we are in and what we need to improve on. That is what we are working hard on.”

His remarks reflected a manager attempting to steady the narrative, even as results continued to falter.

What Comes Next

Tottenham are expected to appoint an interim coach in the short term, with a permanent successor likely to be identified ahead of the summer rebuild. Betting markets have begun speculating on potential replacements, though the club has yet to indicate a preferred direction.

For a team that entered the season targeting progress, the immediate objective has shifted to stability and, increasingly, survival.

Sources: Telegraph Sport; Tottenham Hotspur statement