Tottenham Hotspur head coach Thomas Frank has publicly stated that he has no issue with supporters chanting the name of former manager Mauricio Pochettino, even as the club endures a difficult Premier League campaign and increasing pressure on his position. The comments come amid growing frustration among Tottenham fans, who have made their feelings heard following a series of underwhelming results that have left the team closer to the relegation zone than to its traditional ambitions of competing at the top of the table.
Spurs’ struggles were underscored by a 2–0 defeat to Manchester United, a result that triggered visible discontent among the travelling support. Frustration at the result was compounded when a section of supporters began singing for Mauricio Pochettino, who is widely regarded as one of Tottenham’s most successful and transformative managers in recent years.
The chant for Pochettino at Old Trafford was symbolic: many fans are nostalgic for his tenure from 2014 to 2019, during which he led Spurs to regular top-four Premier League finishes and an appearance in the 2018–19 UEFA Champions League final a milestone that cemented his reputation and secured his place in the club’s modern history, even without winning a major trophy.
Despite the calls for his predecessor, Frank has taken a diplomatic stance. When asked about the chanting and Pochettino’s recent remarks in which the Argentine highlighted his bond with the club, Frank said he understands why fans feel connected to Pochettino and that singing his name is well deserved. He acknowledged Pochettino’s role in elevating Tottenham’s status during his spell in charge, describing him as a “legend” at the club.
“I met Mauricio a few times. Great guy, a great coach. I think he’s a legend here,” Frank told reporters. “I don’t think he won a trophy, but he was part of transforming the club, from where it was at that stage to where it ended being in terms of being close to winning the Premier League title and getting into the Champions League final. If the fans sing his name, it’s well deserved.”
Frank’s comments reflect a broader recognition within the club’s coaching staff and hierarchy that supporters’ emotional connection to past success particularly under charismatic and tactically respected figures like Pochettino runs deep. Tottenham’s vocal fanbase has never shied away from expressing its views on managerial performance, especially when current form fails to meet expectations.
Team form and fan sentiment
Tottenham’s current season has been inconsistent at best. Under Frank, Spurs have suffered a run of poor results that included a seven-game winless streak in the Premier League, leaving them precariously placed in the table and often closer to the relegation zone than to European qualification spots. The loss to Manchester United was particularly significant, dropping Spurs to 15th place, just six points clear of the bottom three before their next fixture against Newcastle United.
Fans’ calls for Pochettino’s return or at least vocal support for his name during matches are part of a broader expression of dissatisfaction with the team’s direction this season. Many supporters look back at Pochettino’s era as a period of stability and progression, during which Tottenham became regular contenders for the Champions League and established itself among England’s elite clubs.
Despite the nostalgia for past success, Frank’s position as head coach remains secure for now, and he has reiterated his commitment to improving results. The Dane has faced criticism over a perceived lack of ambition in his tactical approach, especially in contrast to the proactive styles favoured by previous managers. However, Frank has repeatedly stressed his focus on the present and his belief in the squad’s potential to turn things around.
Club future and Pochettino speculation
While Frank acknowledges the chants and respects the sentiment behind them, he has not addressed rumours regarding a potential managerial return for Pochettino. At present, Pochettino is committed to his role as head coach of the United States Men’s National Team, a position he holds through the 2026 FIFA World Cup, making any immediate return to club management unlikely.
Nevertheless, bookmakers have responded to fan sentiment and Tottenham’s form by shortening the odds for Pochettino’s return, reflecting the strong support he continues to enjoy among the club’s fanbase. Such speculation underscores the challenge Frank faces in winning over supporters during a difficult campaign.
Thomas Frank’s acceptance of Tottenham fans chanting Mauricio Pochettino’s name highlights the complex relationship between a club’s present and its celebrated past. While Frank remains professional and supportive of the chants, his comments also underscore his respect for the club’s history and recognition of Pochettino’s achievements. At the same time, Spurs’ inconsistent results this season including the recent defeat to Manchester United have intensified calls from supporters for a return to the style and success associated with the Argentine’s tenure.
As Tottenham look to regain momentum, Frank’s ability to unify the squad and satisfy a demanding fanbase will be critical in determining both his future at the club and Tottenham’s performance in the remainder of the Premier League season.