Tottenham begin negotiations with Mauricio Pochettino. What is the plan?

Europe 20 February 2026 at 20:27

Hazem Mlhem

News Editor

Tottenham Hotspur have officially begun the process of identifying a new permanent head coach, with the club's hierarchy reportedly zeroing in on a familiar face to take the reins in the summer.

The decision comes in the wake of Thomas Frank’s departure, following a troubling stretch that saw the team go eight matches without a win. In the interim, Igor Tudor has stepped in to steady the ship. The Croatian coach is set to make his debut on the touchline tomorrow, February 22, when Spurs face Arsenal at 17:30 CET.

But while Tudor manages the present, the club’s focus is already shifting toward the future. According to Football Insider, Tottenham’s primary target is none other than Mauricio Pochettino—the man who once led the club to Champions League glory and earned a lasting place in the hearts of the fanbase.

Currently at the helm of the United States men’s national team, Pochettino is said to have already engaged in preliminary discussions with Spurs officials. Speculation around his return has only intensified following his recent trip to London, though sources close to the coach maintain the visit was for personal reasons.

As the rumor mill churns, all eyes will soon turn to Tudor’s first test: a high-stakes north London derby that could set the tone for the remainder of the season.

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