Mauricio Pochettino has dismissed the idea of a return to former club Tottenham to replace Ange Postecoglou as "not realistic". Spurs are seeking a new head coach having sacked Postecoglou just 16 days after leading the club to Europa League glory, their first trophy in 17 years.
United States boss Pochettino ended a five-year stay at Tottenham in November 2019, having helped Spurs reach the final of the Champions League that year. The Argentinian signed a two-year contract to become US head coach last September and is expected to lead the team into next year's home World Cup.
Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT
Speaking after his side's 2-1 friendly defeat to Turkey in Connecticut, Pochettino told reporters: "After I left in 2019, every time that I was free, and the place of the position of the manager or head coach in Tottenham Hotspur, my name is appearing on the list.
"If you have seen the rumours, I think there are 100 coaches in the list. I think, don't be worried about that.
"If something happened, for sure you will see, but we cannot talk about this type of thing, because I think today, it's not real. It's not realistic.
"Look at where I am, where we are. And the thing is, the answer is so clear, no? But we're talking about it because it's my club, like Newells or Espanyol."
Brentford boss Thomas Frank is reported to be the leading contender to replace Postecoglou, with Crystal Palace's Oliver Glasner, Fulham manager Marco Silva and Andoni Iraola of Bournemouth also linked with the post.
Spurs technical director Johan Lange is leading the search. He worked with Frank in Denmark and considered him for the Aston Villa job while working at Villa Park.
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Reports suggest that Brentford have already begun planning for Frank's possible departure, with the Bees chiefs very strong admirers of Ipswich's Kieran McKenna.
He was linked with Manchester United, the club he formerly coached at, and Chelsea, 12 months ago before turning them down and committing his future to Ipswich.
However, McKenna was not able to keep them in the top flight and could leave for the Gtech Community Stadium if Frank completes a move to Spurs.