Get ready for a thrilling twist in the world of football management!
The Return of the King?
In a bold move, Ian Ladyman, the Daily Mail's Football Editor, has revealed his take on Tottenham's next managerial step after the recent sacking of Thomas Frank. And it's a name that will send shivers down the spines of Spurs fans: Mauricio Pochettino.
But here's where it gets controversial...
Pochettino, the man who led Tottenham to their greatest heights in recent history, including a Champions League final appearance, is currently managing the USA national team. However, Ladyman predicts that Poch's time with the US will be short-lived, and he'll be back at Tottenham next season.
'I'd be shocked if it wasn't Pochettino managing Spurs next season,' Ladyman stated confidently.
And this is the part most people miss...
Tottenham are currently in a precarious position, sitting 16th in the Premier League, just five points above the drop zone. Ladyman believes that an interim manager is the key to keeping them afloat until the end of the season, and then bringing in the big guns - Pochettino - in the summer.
'If I was in charge, I'd hire an interim to keep them up. If that interim can work miracles and get to a Champions League quarter-final, fantastic. But Poch won't stay with the US after the World Cup. I'd get him in during the summer. There's unfinished business there,' Ladyman explained.
But why the sudden change of heart for Pochettino? Well, it seems he has some scores to settle with Tottenham.
Pochettino guided Tottenham to their most successful period, but he was controversially sacked in 2019 with an impressive 55.9% win percentage, the third-highest in the club's Premier League history.
Ladyman agreed with the Tottenham board's decision to sack Frank, stating it was necessary to safeguard the club's top-flight status. However, he acknowledged the difficulty of the situation, given Frank's widespread respect in the footballing world.
'Tottenham have Arsenal at home next. They have West Ham picking up points beneath them. Relegation is not an option. They had to make the tough call and sack a man who is highly regarded in the industry. But Frank has failed at Tottenham,' Ladyman said.
Ladyman revealed that sources close to the club have been saying all season that the squad is simply not good enough. He argued that their Champions League success is a result of facing weaker teams, pointing out that they've only beaten teams ranked 31st, 33rd, 34th, and 35th in their respective leagues.
'They've beaten the teams they should have beaten. They won against the rubbish in the Champions League. They can't beat Premier League teams. Their expected goals (xG) are embarrassingly bad at home,' Ladyman added.
So, will Pochettino's return be the savior Tottenham needs? Or is this a risky move that could backfire?
Listen to Ladyman's full assessment on the Whistleblowers podcast and decide for yourself.
What do you think? Should Tottenham bring back Pochettino? Share your thoughts in the comments!
