Ange Postecoglou axed by Tottenham despite club’s Europa League triumph

Tottenham’s poor form in the 2024-25 English Premier League season has cost Ange Postecoglou his job as Spurs manager despite leading the club to UEFA Europa League glory.

Sacked manager Ange Postecoglou says he will be “forever connected” with the Tottenham squad he guided to UEFA Europa League glory.

Spurs announced early on Saturday (AEST) that the former Socceroos coach had been axed after two seasons in charge of the London club despite delivering Tottenham its first trophy in 17 years last month with a 1-0 win over Manchester United in the Europa League final in Bilbao.

It was a triumph that also ensured Spurs would be playing UEFA Champions League football next season.

However, Tottenham’s poor form this season in the English Premier League has ultimately cost Postecoglou his job.

Spurs finished in 17th spot, just one place above the relegation zone, suffering 22 defeats in the club’s 2024-25 Premier League campaign.

Ange Postecoglou celebrates after guiding Spurs to UEFA Europa League glory. Picture: Ryan Pierse/Getty Images

“Whilst winning the Europa League this season ranks as one of the club’s greatest moments, we cannot base our decision on emotions aligned to this triumph,” Spurs’ official statement said.

“The board has unanimously concluded that it is in the best interests of the club for a change to take place.

“It is crucial that we are able to compete on multiple fronts and believe a change of approach will give us the strongest chance for the coming season and beyond.

“This has been one of the toughest decisions we have had to make and is not a decision that we have taken lightly, nor one we have rushed to conclude.

“We have made what we believe is the right decision to give us the best chance of success going forward, not the easy decision.”

Postecoglou, who had two seasons remaining on the four-year contract he signed in June 2023, issued his own statement following his sacking.

Ange Postecoglou’s time as Tottenham manager is over following his sacking. Picture: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images

“When I reflect on my time as manager of Tottenham Hotspur my overriding emotion is one of pride,” said Postecoglou, whose reported payout will be $5.4 million.

“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 17 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.”

Postecoglou concluded his statement with the Latin phrase “Audere est Facere”, which translates to “to dare is to do”.