Sports Mole

Tottenham Hotspur are expected to appoint a replacement for Igor Tudor before the squad return from international duty, the latest report has claimed.

While the news of Tudor's dismissal on Sunday came as little surprise to Spurs fans, it does highlight the precarious position the club find themselves in.

The Londoners are 17th in the Premier League table with just 30 points, one point more than 18th-placed West Ham United.

Tudor had taken charge of five top-flight games and had only claimed one point, and he had also lost five of his seven matches in all competitions.

Journalist Alasdair Gold has revealed that Tottenham are expected to appoint a new head coach in the next couple of days, with Bruno Saltor set to remain and take charge of training for those few players that did not leave to play for their national teams.

Did Tottenham Hotspur wait too long to sack Igor Tudor?

The new manager will have at least 10 days to work with the squad given the Premier League does not resume until the middle of April due to the FA Cup, which Spurs were knockout out of by Aston Villa in early January.

However, the new head coach will only be in charge for seven league games, and with the club only above West Ham by a point, the threat of relegation must be taken seriously.

IGOR TUDOR RECORD

Games: 7

Wins: 1

Draws: 1

Losses: 5

Goals Scored: 9

Goals Conceded: 20

Spurs were beaten 3-0 by Nottingham Forest at home on March 22, and had a new boss been in place for that match, the club could have been four points ahead of the bottom three.

Tottenham's final stretch of the season is also difficult, with games to come against the likes of Sunderland, Aston Villa, Chelsea and Everton, and it may ultimately be too challenging to rescue the Londoners from the drop.

Roberto De Zerbi to take charge of Spurs for final Premier League games?

Former Brighton & Hove Albion and Marseille boss Roberto De Zerbi has been touted as a serious target for Tottenham, though he is thought to be reluctant to take over before the end of the season.

Hiring another interim may be unpalatable to Spurs fans, but with the club at serious risk of relegation, top-level managers may be unwilling to join until the team's Premier League status is secured.

Tottenham Hotspur have confirmed that head coach Igor Tudor has departed his position by mutual consent.

The former Marseille and Juventus boss only arrived in February as a replacement for the sacked Thomas Frank but presided over a disastrous seven-game run in the hotseat.

Tudor lost each of his first four games as Tottenham head coach before overseeing a 1-1 draw with Liverpool, which preceded an inconsequential 3-2 Champions League triumph over Atletico Madrid.

However, just when things appeared to be looking up for the Lilywhites, Tudor oversaw a shocking 3-0 home defeat to Nottingham Forest, which left Spurs just one point above the relegation zone in the Premier League table.

Straight after the defeat to Nottingham Forest before the international break, Tudor was informed of the death of his father and did not conduct his post-match media duties, which Bruno Saltor took on instead.

Tottenham confirm Igor Tudor exit by mutual consent

Igor Tudor Tottenham results

February 22, 2026: Spurs 1-4 Arsenal (Premier League)

March 1, 2026: Fulham 2-1 Spurs (Premier League)

March 5, 2025: Spurs 1-3 Crystal Palace (Premier League)

March 10, 2026: Atletico Madrid 5-2 Spurs (Champions League)

March 15, 2026: Liverpool 1-1 Spurs (Premier League)

March 18, 2026: Spurs 3-2 Atletico Madrid (Champions League)

March 22, 2026: Spurs 0-3 Nottingham Forest (Premier League)

Following Tudor's family tragedy, and the Croatian's disastrous set of results since taking over from Frank, rumours began growing that Tottenham were set to part ways with the 47-year-old.

On Sunday afternoon, Tottenham confirmed that they had mutually parted ways with Tudor, as well as goalkeeping coach Tomislav Rogic and physical coach Riccardo Ragnacci.

"We can confirm that it has been mutually agreed for Head Coach Igor Tudor to leave the Club with immediate effect," the Europa League winners said in a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter.

"Tomislav Rogic and Riccardo Ragnacci have also left their respective roles of Goalkeeping Coach and Physical Coach. We thank Igor, Tomislav and Riccardo for their efforts during the past six weeks, in which they worked tirelessly.

"We also acknowledge the bereavement that Igor has recently suffered and send our support to him and his family at this difficult time. An update on a new Head Coach will be provided in due course."

Which managers could Tottenham target to replace Igor Tudor?

It was a case of when not if Tudor would leave Tottenham, as the Lilywhites board are left to rue one of the most disastrous Premier League managerial appointments in recent memory.

Spurs have been linked with the likes of Bournemouth's Andoni Iraola and Crystal Palace's Oliver Glasner, neither of whom is expected to still be in their respective roles by the start of next season, but neither should also depart before the campaign concludes.

Instead, Tottenham will almost certainly go for another stop-gap appointment, and Sean Dyche is one name who will inevitably be in the frame, despite the ex-Burnley boss recently playing down such speculation.

Ryan Mason - who had two respectable stints as interim boss in 2021 and 2023 - could also take on the caretaker reins for a third time, having been sacked from his position as West Bromwich Albion head coach in January.

Former Everton and Nottingham Forest manager Sean Dyche has addressed recent reports linking him with a firefighter role at Tottenham Hotspur.

The North London club are facing the very real possibility of a historic relegation from the Premier League following a catastrophic run of results since the turn of the year.

Spurs are yet to record a top-flight victory in 2026 and currently sit just one point above the bottom three with only seven matches remaining to secure their safety.

Interim head coach Igor Tudor has struggled to arrest the slide since succeeding Thomas Frank in February, picking up a solitary point from his five games in charge at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

With the Croatian recently spending time away from the club following the tragic passing of his father, speculation has intensified regarding another managerial change during the international break.

Dyche laughs off reports of Tottenham talks in London

Speaking on talkSPORT via The Daily Mail, the 54-year-old dismissed social media claims that he had been spotted in the capital to formalise a short-term agreement with the Spurs hierarchy.

'It's brilliant, honestly," admitted Dyche. "I was in a pub just the way near my place I've got down here and this guy goes, "Oh, you're meant to be in talks with Spurs tonight".

"I went, 'Well I'm sat next to you having a pint of Guinness, so it's unlikely! Unless you work for Spurs and they're in the Seven Stars pub having a pint of Guinness, it's highly unlikely'."

While he admitted to being flattered by the association with such a massive organisation, he insisted that no official contact has been made regarding a potential vacancy.

Dyche remains out of work after being relieved of his duties by Forest just three months into his tenure earlier this year.

Can a new manager save Spurs from the Championship?

Any decision to replace Tudor would represent a desperate final throw of the dice for a board that have already sanctioned one mid-season dismissal this term.

Spurs' historical status as Premier League ever-presents is under serious threat as they prepare for a daunting final stretch that includes fixtures against several top-half sides.

While Dyche’s reputation for defensive solidity and survival expertise makes him an attractive candidate, the club’s inability to find a winning formula suggests deeper systemic issues within the first-team squad.

If a change is not made before the domestic schedule resumes, senior figures will be pinning their hopes on Tudor's ability to unite a demoralised group during the final weeks of the campaign.

Leeds United have reportedly suffered a blow in their possible pursuit for Tottenham Hotspur man Archie Gray.

The 20-year-old has been linked with a number of elite clubs in recent times, including Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich.

Gray has played 21 matches for the Lilywhites in the Premier League, where Spurs are hoping to remain past May.

Igor Tudor's troops are staring relegation to the Championship in the face, fighting to avoid a bottom-three finish.

Tottenham lost a crucial six-pointer to Nottingham Forest last weekend, when the Tricky Trees netted three without reply in North London.

Leeds suffer blow in Gray pursuit?

According to TEAMtalk, Leeds have suffered a significant blow in their possible pursuit of former youngster Gray.

The 20-year-old left Elland Road for Tottenham in July 2024 for a £40m fee, and it was suggested that the Whites have a buy-back clause in the deal.

However, it is understood that no such stipulation exists for Leeds to potentially trigger in the future.

There are a host of other named suitors for Gray, including Premier League trio Manchester United, Chelsea and Aston Villa.

There are also admirers of the England Under-21 international from Germany in the form of Borussia Dortmund.

Vultures circle around Gray

Should Tottenham suffer relegation from the top flight for the first time since 1977, it is hard to imagine Gray sticking around.

The 20-year-old is being courted by some of Europe's biggest clubs ahead of a seismic summer transfer window.

Still searching for their maiden Premier League victory of 2026, Spurs visit Sunderland on April 12.

Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur are expected to up their efforts to sign Roma defender Evan Ndicka.

The two clubs are currently fighting for different targets, with the Merseyside giants sitting in fifth position in the Premier League table and looking to go deep in the Champions League, at the same time as Spurs are just one point above the relegation zone.

However, a scenario may play out where Liverpool's reputation could drop if they only qualify for the Europa League, and Spurs' is enhanced if they survive in the top flight and appoint a long-term target as head coach.

Meanwhile, both teams will be eager to add at least one new central defender to their ranks, a consequence of encountering issues in the position throughout 2025-26.

According to CaughtOffside, trying to sign Ndicka is very much in the plans of the Premier League giants.

Liverpool, Spurs to up Ndicka interest?

The report alleges that Liverpool and Spurs are expected to 'increase their interest' in the Roma star.

As he nears the end of his third season at Stadio Olimpico, the 26-year-old has made 120 appearances for the Italian side in all competitions.

A total of six goals and five assists have been contributed from a player who is also capable of deputising at left-back if required.

With a contract in place until 2028, Roma are allegedly prepared to consider offers over €45m (£39.21m).

While Barcelona are also named as admirers of the Ivory Coast international, there are doubts as to whether they would be prepared to meet those demands.

Bayern Munich are another European giant who are said to be monitoring the situation.

Why chances of Roma selling Ndicka are high

Roma have an agreement with UEFA to adhere to certain financial constraints by June 30.

With Ndicka one of their most prized assets, it is plausible to expect offers to be entertained for the player.

As it stands, Roma sit in sixth position in the Serie A table, three points adrift of the Champions League qualification places and four points above seventh spot.

Ndicka has contributed to Roma conceding just 23 goals from their 30 matches.

Reported Tottenham Hotspur managerial target Roberto De Zerbi is facing backlash from several prominent supporter groups.

Spurs find themselves in a perilous position as they battle to preserve their Premier League status following a disastrous run under interim head coach Igor Tudor.

The Lilywhites, 17th in the Premier League table, have secured just one victory since the Croatian took charge, and speculation regarding another managerial change is intensifying as the season nears its conclusion.

With Tudor currently on leave following a personal tragedy, the North London club are reportedly evaluating potential successors to lead the survival mission.

However, a move for one high-profile candidate has already sparked significant backlash from several prominent supporter groups.

These organisations have voiced their displeasure amidst reports linking the former Marseille boss with the vacancy at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Spurs fans unite against potential De Zerbi appointment

As reported by The Daily Mail, three major fan organisations, including Women of the Lane, Proud Lilywhites and Spurs Reach, have launched a 'No to Roberto De Zerbi' campaign.

The groups have expressed serious concerns regarding the Italian's previous defence of Mason Greenwood during their time together at Marseille.

De Zerbi's comments describing the forward as a "good guy" who had paid a "heavy price" have been viewed by many as downplaying violence against women.

Consequently, the supporters believe that hiring the former Brighton & Hove Albion boss would introduce an unnecessary cultural risk to the club.

The campaign groups insist that the manager sets the tone for the entire organisation and that De Zerbi's values do not align with those of the Spurs community.

Cultural values at stake amid Spurs' relegation struggle

The protest highlights a growing divide between the club's board and a fanbase that prioritises institutional values over short-term results.

While De Zerbi is regarded as a high-calibre coach with significant Premier League experience, his willingness to defend Greenwood has made him a divisive figure.

Spurs currently sit just one point above the bottom three, and any new appointment must unite a fractured community ahead of crucial fixtures in their run-in, two of which include matches against Chelsea and Aston Villa.

It will be interesting to see if the hierarchy decide that the tactical benefits of hiring the Italian outweigh the potential damage to the club's stated commitments to inclusion and respect.

Tottenham Hotspur are in danger of watching their season unravel completely, with uncertainty in the dugout becoming just as damaging as performances on the pitch.

Ever since the departure of Ange Postecoglou last summer, the north London outfit have struggled to find stability, with interim boss Igor Tudor failing to steady the ship during a turbulent interim spell.

With relegation now a genuine concern and key decisions looming, Spurs’ hierarchy are under mounting pressure to get their next managerial appointment absolutely right.

Tottenham could turn to Sean Dyche amid Roberto De Zerbi update

Reports now suggest that Tottenham could turn to Sean Dyche as a short-term solution if their pursuit of former Brighton and Hove Albion manager Roberto De Zerbi continues to stall.

De Zerbi remains the club’s preferred long-term option, but the Italian is reluctant to step into a relegation battle so late in the season, instead favouring a move in the summer.

That leaves Spurs in a difficult position.

Tudor is under pressure after a poor run of results, and the club may need an immediate fix. Dyche’s reputation for organising struggling sides and avoiding the drop makes him a logical, if uninspiring, candidate.

However, even Dyche may be hesitant to accept a short-term role with so much uncertainty surrounding the club’s direction.

There's an argument to be made that if Spurs are to be made to wait, then there are much more suitable options than both the aforementioned out-of-work duo.

Sports Mole takes a look at three options who would be considerably better than either Dyche or De Zerbi.

Three managers who Spurs should target instead

If Tottenham are serious about rebuilding rather than merely surviving, they should aim higher than short-term, stop-gap solutions or managers already holding doubts.

Andoni Iraola

A modern and high-energy tactician, Andoni Iraola has built a reputation as one of the Premier League’s most impressive overachievers with AFC Bournemouth.

Despite limited resources and the departure of key players, he has transformed the Cherries into a competitive, well-drilled side pushing towards the top half, merely highlighting his ability to improve players without major spending.

His vertically aggressive, high-intensity style has drawn widespread praise, while his work with emerging talents mirrors Tottenham’s long-standing focus on youth development.

Crucially, Iraola has shown resilience and adaptability, keeping his side competitive through periods of transition, which is exactly the sort of qualities Spurs currently lack.

Oliver Glasner

Oliver Glasner would offer Tottenham something they have sorely missed - a proven winner with a clear tactical structure.

At Crystal Palace, he made an immediate impact by delivering silverware and securing European football, raising the club’s ceiling in a remarkably short time.

Known for his organised pressing systems and defensive discipline, Glasner would bring much-needed stability to a Spurs side that has looked chaotic for long stretches.

His previous success with Eintracht Frankfurt, which includes a Europa League triumph, underlines his ability to thrive in high-pressure environments, while his development of players like Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi further aligns with Spurs' recruitment model.

Mauricio Pochettino

The emotional, and arguably most logical, choice remains Mauricio Pochettino - and he would love to return.

During his previous spell in north London, he oversaw the Spurs' most successful modern era, delivering consistent top-four finishes and a run to the Champions League final.

More importantly, he built a clear identity. Players such as Harry Kane, Heung-min Son and Dele Alli flourished under his guidance, reflecting his ability to develop talent and foster belief.

With Spurs once again fractured, Pochettino’s man-management and connection with supporters could provide immediate stability, which is something no short-term appointment or uncertain long-term gamble can guarantee.

Tottenham Hotspur have endured a frustrating campaign on multiple fronts, with injuries playing a major role in their misfortune.

Few absences have been felt more than that of Dejan Kulusevski, who has been sidelined for an extended period with a serious knee issue that has kept him out of action far longer than initially expected.

However, there are now signs of encouragement, with the Sweden international now offering a fresh and notably positive update on his recovery.

What has Spurs star Dejan Kulusevski said about his injury?

Speaking during a recent interview, via Sky Sports, Kulusevski moved to reassure supporters after concerns were raised over his condition.

The winger revealed that a recent minor procedure has actually helped resolve the underlying issue, describing the development as “really positive” after months of uncertainty.

Kulusevski admitted that he can now “see the light” at the end of his recovery, adding that his knee is finally starting to feel right again as he works his way back to full fitness.

Encouragingly, he has even set his sights on representing Sweden national football team at this summer’s World Cup, underlining his belief that a return to action is not far away.

Dejan Kulusevski approaching one year since last Spurs appearance

It has been a long and frustrating road for the 25-year-old, who has not featured for Spurs since May last year.

What initially appeared to be a routine setback quickly escalated into a serious knee problem, eventually requiring surgery on his patella following a challenge involving Marc Guehi.

While an initial return date around December was floated, repeated delays have left Kulusevski watching from the sidelines for nearly a full year - a period that has understandably tested both his patience and the club’s attacking depth.

Does Dejan Kulusevski have a future at Spurs?

At this stage, Kulusevski’s future at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium feels increasingly uncertain.

On one hand, his quality is undeniable, and if he returns to full fitness, he could still play a major role under Igor Tudor or any future manager, but on the other, a lack of minutes, ongoing fitness concerns, and wider uncertainty around the club’s direction - including which division they may be competing in - leaves his long-term role far from guaranteed.

For now, the focus will simply be on getting back onto the pitch, but once he does, both player and club may soon face a defining decision about what comes next.

Arsenal Women will lock horns with local rivals Tottenham Hotspur Women in Saturday's North London derby at the Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners head into the weekend in fourth spot in the Women's Super League table, while Spurs are six points adrift in fifth position.

Match preview

Arsenal have put together a 10-game winning run in all competitons since losing to Manchester United in the League Cup semi-finals in January.

Their impressive run of results includes two wins in their triumphant FIFA Women's Champions Cup campaign and two victories in their Women's Champions League knockout playoff tie against Leuven, which set up an all-English quarter-final clash against Chelsea.

Arsenal have the upper hand in that tie after claiming a 3-1 victory in Tuesday's first leg at the Emirates Stadium, thanks to efforts from Stina Blackstenius, Chloe Kelly and Alessia Russo.

They will try to defend that lead in Wednesday's return fixture at Stamford Bridge, but first, they will turn their focus back to their bid to secure European qualification for next season.

Having won 10, drawn five and lost one of their 16 league matches, Renee Slegers's side are sitting in fourth spot in the WSL table, with two games in hand over Chelsea and Man United, who are two points and three points better off in third and second place respectively.

Arsenal, who are unbeaten in 11 top-flight matches, are one of two teams yet to lose at home in the WSL this season, having won five and drawn three of their eight matches on home turf.

Meanwhile, Tottenham's hopes of a top-three finish have disappeared with four defeats in their last five top-flight outings.

In fact, Spurs have suffered back-to-back losses since pulling off a 7-3 away league win over Aston Villa and beating London City Lionesses on penalties in the FA Cup.

Martin Ho's charges fell to a narrow 2-1 defeat at home to Everton in the first game back from the international break, before goals from Olivia Holdt and Bethany England proved fruitless in last Saturday's 5-2 loss to leaders Man City.

While they are now eight points adrift of the top three, the fifth-placed can still be pleased with the progress they have made this term, as demonstrated by the fact that they have already collected nine more points than the 20-point tally they finished with last season.

Spurs will still be driven by the chance to dent Arsenal's top-three hopes, even if they may already have one eye on their FA Cup quarter-final clash against Chelsea on April 6.

Tottenham, who held Arsenal to a goalless draw in November, are bidding to claim their first-ever away victory over their local rivals in the WSL, with their only previous win taking place at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in December 2023.

However, achieving that feat will prove tricky for a team that have won just one of their 11 WSL road trips this season (D5, L5).

Arsenal Women Women's Super League form:

W D W W W W

Arsenal Women form (all competitions):

W W W W W W

Tottenham Hotspur Women Women's Super League form:

L W L W L L

Tottenham Hotspur Women form (all competitions):

W L W W L L

Team News

Arsenal remain without the services of long-term absentees Manuela Zinsberger and Katie Reid.

Defender Leah Williamson is a doubt after missing the last two matches with a hamstring issue.

The Australian trio of Caitlin Foord, Kyra Cooney-Cross and Steph Catley are available after returning from the Asian Cup.

As for the visitors, they are unable to call upon Luana Buhler, Amy James-Turner, Ella Morris, Maite Oroz and Jessica Naz.

Australia international Clare Hunt has undergone surgery after she sustained a knee injury at the Asian Cup.

Maika Hamano, who scored the winner for Japan in last weekend's final against Australia, will be available for selection alongside her international teammate Toko Koga.

Arsenal Women possible starting lineup:

Borbe; Fox, Wubben-Moy, Catley, McCabe; Maanum, Little, Caldentey; Kelly, Foord, Russo

Tottenham Hotspur Women possible starting lineup:

Kop; Wijk, Koga, Bartrip, Nilden; Hamano, Summanen, Gaupset, Vinberg; Holdt, England

We say: Arsenal Women 2-0 Tottenham Hotspur Women

Arsenal will have to quickly recover from their midweek exertions in the Women's Champions League, but while there may be some tiredness in the squad, we still believe the Gunners will have the extra quality required to see off their local rivals on Saturday.

Randal Kolo Muani has reportedly informed parent club Paris Saint-Germain of his wish to secure a permanent move to Juventus this summer.

Kolo Muani, currently at Tottenham Hotspur for the 2025-26 season, has struggled for consistency amid the North Londoners' broader challenges with performances and results.

Spurs currently sit just above the relegation zone following a disastrous run of form that has left them winless in 11 league matches.

Interim head coach Igor Tudor has struggled to inspire a turnaround since his arrival four weeks ago, with the squad appearing devoid of confidence during the survival scrap.

Amid the ongoing turmoil at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Kolo Muani is understood to be planning for life away from the Premier League.

Kolo Muani 'confirms' desire for Juventus return

According to football.london, the 27-year-old Frenchman has no interest in staying at the struggling Premier League side beyond this season.

Kolo Muani's preference is believed to be Juventus, where he previously enjoyed a successful loan spell in Turin, recording 10 goals in 22 appearances, a stark contrast to his recent struggles in England.

Since joining Spurs on temporary terms, the Frenchman has managed just five goals in 33 matches across all competitions, with only one strike coming in the top flight.

Juventus are believed to have attempted an early termination of his current loan in January, but PSG are now holding out for a significant permanent fee.

What next for Spurs' struggling frontline?

How the potential departure of a high-profile loanee will impact the club’s recruitment strategy, should they manage to maintain their top-flight status, is still uncertain.

The Spurs hierarchy are expected to demand a specialist replacement to partner Richarlison or Dominic Solanke, especially as the future of the managerial hotseat remains unresolved during the international break.

With PSG aiming to recoup a large portion of the £76.4m spent on Kolo Muani, a deal with the Italian giants may depend on the final valuation.

Regardless, the Lilywhites must prioritise securing immediate points before addressing the long-term makeup of a squad that has underperformed significantly throughout the current campaign.