Former Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou has spoken publicly for the first time since his departure from Tottenham Hotspur, delivering a dignified and emotional statement that highlights the values which defined both his time in North London and Glasgow.
The Australian, who led Celtic to five trophies in two seasons before joining Spurs in 2023, expressed pride in his achievements and gratitude for the relationships built during his two-year spell in charge. His farewell message struck a balance between reflection, acknowledgment of challenges, and optimism for the future.
Postecoglou’s time at Tottenham saw the club mastermind a brilliant 1-0 victory over Manchester United in the Europa League final in Bilbao. That landmark achievement brought Spurs their first major European silverware in decades, capping a campaign that will live long in the memory for supporters.
The former Celtic manager’s statement is likely to resonate with Hoops fans who remember his humility and brilliance in communication. It also highlights exactly why he remained a respected figure long after leaving Celtic.
He said: (Tottenham Tiers), “When I reflect on my time as Manager of Tottenham Hotspur my overriding emotion is one of pride.
“The opportunity to lead one of England’s historic football clubs and bring back the glory it deserves will live with me for a lifetime.
“Sharing that experience with all those who truly love this club and seeing the impact it had on them is something I will never forget. That night in Bilbao was the culmination of two years of hard work, dedication and unwavering belief in a dream.
“There were many challenges to overcome and plenty of noise that comes with trying to accomplish what many said was not possible.
We have also laid foundations that mean this club should not have to wait 7 more years for their next success.
“I have enormous faith in this group of players and know there is much more potential and growth in them.
“I sincerely want to thank those who are the lifeblood of the club, the supporters. I know there were some difficult times but I always felt that they wanted me to succeed and that gave me all the motivation I needed to push on.
“It’s important to acknowledge the hard working people at Spurs who gave me encouragement on a daily basis.
“And finally, I want to thank those who were with me every day for the last two years. A fantastic group of young men who are now legends of this football club and the brilliant coaches who never once doubted we could do something special.
“We are forever connected. Audere est Facere.”
For Celtic fans, the message is a familiar one, delivered in the same calm, resolute tone that marked his time in Glasgow. His focus on unity, belief, and a collective progress is exactly what he often preached during his time at Lennoxtown and Celtic Park.
Postecoglou’s European triumph with Spurs is a significant achievement, and a crowning moment for a manager who made a habit of delivering against the odds. That final in Bilbao, secured through organisation, spirit, and belief, felt like the end of the journey he started at Celtic.
While there is speculation over what comes next for the 58-year-old, his composed exit shows a manager who remains grounded and connected to the people behind the badge, be it in North London or the East End of Glasgow.