Ange Postecoglou’s tenure at Tottenham Hotspur is currently under scrutiny, with mixed results causing some concern about his future. Despite an initial positive start, Tottenham’s form has been inconsistent, leading to questions about whether Postecoglou is the right man for the job. After securing a solid 2-1 win against Aston Villa on November 3, Spurs have since faltered, losing their next two matches to Galatasaray and Ipswich. This has added to the growing sense of uncertainty surrounding the team’s direction under Postecoglou.
Tottenham’s recent Premier League record reflects this inconsistency. Out of their last six matches, they have managed three wins but also suffered three losses. While their position in the table is far from disastrous, sitting 10th after 11 matches, it’s the overall sense of underachievement that is raising eyebrows. They have only managed five victories in the opening 11 games, which, despite being only three points off third place, leaves Spurs fans and pundits alike questioning whether the team is performing to expectations. The lack of defensive solidity, in particular, has been one of the main criticisms. Tottenham has looked vulnerable at the back, and Postecoglou’s style of play, which prioritizes attacking football, has not always seemed to suit the players at his disposal.
Former Tottenham goalkeeper Paul Robinson has weighed in on the situation, suggesting that Postecoglou could be under serious pressure by the end of the season. Robinson, a Tottenham ‘expert’ in his own right, indicated that the manager’s future may hinge on whether Spurs can secure a place in European competition for next season. He believes that if Postecoglou fails to guide the team into the Champions League or Europa League, his position could come into question. Robinson pointed out that Postecoglou has to show signs of progress, but so far, Tottenham’s defensive frailties and inability to sustain good form could lead to mounting pressure.
While Postecoglou has earned some credit for introducing an attacking brand of football, Robinson emphasized the importance of finding balance. The team’s defensive weaknesses cannot be ignored, and the club’s ambition to compete in Europe must be met. Tottenham is known for its trophy-less history, and this has placed even more weight on the need to qualify for European football. The club’s decision-makers are unlikely to accept another season without European competition, especially with Postecoglou sticking to a tactical approach that hasn’t always been effective. The ongoing issue of Spurs failing to win big matches or make the leap into higher positions in the league has made it clear that a shift in fortunes is needed.
There is also concern that Postecoglou’s tactical philosophy may not align with the available players. He has stuck with his principles, but Tottenham’s squad has not always been able to execute his high-pressing, attacking style. In a league where defensive stability is often key to success, Postecoglou’s focus on possession-based football, at times, has left Tottenham exposed. This has led to questions about whether he should adjust his approach to suit the strengths of the current squad.
For now, Postecoglou’s job appears safe, but the pressure is undoubtedly building. Robinson pointed out that unless Tottenham sees a significant improvement and qualifies for Europe by the end of the season, Postecoglou’s future could be in jeopardy. If Spurs find themselves eliminated from cup competitions by February and out of contention for European spots, the club may decide to part ways with the Australian manager. Tottenham, under its current structure, is a club that demands results. The next few months will be crucial for Postecoglou as he tries to prove that his methods can lead to sustained success and that he can learn from past mistakes. With the stakes high, Tottenham’s board will be watching closely, and Postecoglou will need to show that his vision can bear fruit in the demanding environment of the Premier League.
