Igor Tudor’s stint as Tottenham Hotspur’s interim manager was brief, lasting just 44 days, a period that many fans felt was overly generous given the team’s performance. Supporters had called for his dismissal following a 3-1 loss to Crystal Palace and a 5-2 defeat by Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.
Tudor’s tenure concluded on Sunday after a disappointing 3-0 home defeat to Nottingham Forest. This result left Tottenham precariously perched just a single point above the Premier League relegation zone, with the prospect of playing in the Championship next season looming large.
Roberto De Zerbi has emerged as the leading candidate to succeed Tudor at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The Italian coach, who recently parted ways with Marseille, is a compelling option for Spurs. De Zerbi is highly regarded for his tactical acumen, demonstrated during his successful spell with Brighton.
Accepting the role would present De Zerbi with significant challenges. Spurs find themselves embroiled in a relegation battle in the Premier League, a predicament that reflects their performance this season. While injuries have played a part, Tottenham is currently among the league’s weakest teams.
Opta’s statistics rank Tottenham 14th in the Premier League for Big Chances this season. The absences of Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison for most of the 2025/26 season have left Spurs lacking the creative spark in midfield to generate opportunities in the attacking third.
Tudor’s management saw frequent changes in both tactics and formations, a sign of his struggle to identify and harness the strengths of the squad he inherited from Thomas Frank. The former Juventus and Marseille boss never fully adapted to the team he was tasked to lead.
PARIS, FRANCE – JANUARY 31: Roberto De Zerbi Head Coach of Olympique de Marseille looks on before the Ligue 1 McDonald’s match between Paris FC and Olympique de Marseille at Stade Jean Bouin on January 31, 2026 in Paris, France. (Photo by Catherine Steenkeste/Getty Images)
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Tudor chopped and changed from game-to-game. He also shifted formation several times, indicating an uncertainty over the qualities and traits of the players he inherited from Thomas Frank. The former Juventus and Marseille manager never truly got to grips with the North London side he was hired to lead.
De Zerbi, or whoever Tottenham appoints as its new manager, must settle on a consistent lineup to build chemistry within its team. Spurs require midfielders who can progress the ball more effectively from deep. They need wide players who can affect matches with their dribbling and goal threat in the attacking third.
After flaming out at his last two clubs, De Zerbi’s appointment would be a gamble, but Tottenham needs one last roll of the dice to give itself a chance of staying in the Premier League for next season. At least the Italian has the benefit of seeing what didn’t work for his predecessor.
