A wave of managerial dismissals at the start of 2026 has heightened scrutiny across Europe, with Enzo Maresca departing Chelsea and Xabi Alonso dismissed by Real Madrid. Attention has now turned to north London, where Thomas Frank is under growing pressure at Tottenham Hotspur. Since leaving Brentford in the summer of 2025, Frank has struggled to deliver the desired impact, with Spurs sitting 14th in the Premier League and enduring a four-match winless run that has tested the patience of supporters.
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With uncertainty surrounding Frank’s position, several high-profile managers are currently available, including Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese coach enhanced his reputation by leading Sporting to a domestic title, but his spell in Manchester proved disappointing after he persisted with his preferred 3-4-2-1 system. Despite that setback, the 40-year-old is widely expected to return to management swiftly, potentially remaining within the Premier League.
Former Tottenham defender Sol Campbell believes Amorim may already be under consideration. Speaking to Sky Bet, he suggested discussions could be taking place behind the scenes, while stressing that Tottenham presents a very different challenge from Brentford. Campbell noted that expectations are higher, pressure is more intense, and progress must be evident through performances as well as results. In such an environment, he argued, it is normal for clubs to explore alternative options until success becomes consistent.
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Campbell also reflected on Frank’s adjustment to life at a major club, highlighting the scale of scrutiny and the need to manage players, supporters and the hierarchy simultaneously. He added that Amorim’s difficulties at Manchester United stemmed partly from underestimating the size and demands of the club, as well as the necessity of immediate success. Amorim repeatedly called for patience during his tenure, but ultimately damaged his position by criticising board-level support and making controversial remarks about the squad, following a 15th-place finish and failure to qualify for Europe.
