Spurs Defender Reflects on ‘Strange’ Postecoglou Dismissal | OneFootball

Van de Ven Questions Postecoglou Exit After Tottenham Trophy Success

Reaction to Postecoglou’s Exit

In a summer of uncertainty and speculation at Tottenham, it was one voice, calm, honest and somewhat surprised, that cut through the noise. Micky van de Ven, one of Spurs’ standout performers last season, has described the club’s decision to dismiss Ange Postecoglou as “strange”, especially given the silverware that finally ended a 17-year drought.

“That was ultimately a choice from the club,” Van de Ven told Voetbalzone, when asked about the manager’s surprise departure. The Dutch defender didn’t criticise the board directly but made clear his bewilderment. “From that, you would of course say that it is strange that he was fired.”

Postecoglou wasn’t just popular with fans. It’s evident he earned the respect of his squad. “I think many of the players got along with him well,” Van de Ven said. “And of course he is the first coach who has brought success to Spurs in a long time.”

Photo IMAGO

Legacy of Postecoglou’s Success

Under Postecoglou, Spurs rediscovered belief. They played with identity, structure, and, most crucially, purpose. His short tenure culminated in lifting a long-awaited trophy, a moment that should have been the catalyst for further progress. Instead, the Australian coach finds himself out of the job before he could build on that foundation.

Van de Ven’s reflections hint at a dressing room that was united behind its manager. “That also shows that he has a certain quality and a winning mentality, 100 per cent,” he added. It’s an assessment that will resonate deeply with supporters still trying to make sense of the decision.

Focus Shifts to Managerial Replacement

The Dutch defender was pragmatic about what happens next. “We will see what happens now,” he said. “Of course, we see some rumours about the Brentford head coach, who it will probably be.”

Therein lies Tottenham’s immediate challenge: replacing a figure who was not only successful, but also liked and trusted. Postecoglou was beginning to build something lasting, not just results, but a culture.

The current front-runner, reportedly Brentford’s Thomas Frank, brings Premier League experience and a track record of stability. But even with a capable successor, the timing and rationale behind Postecoglou’s dismissal remain puzzling.

Photo: IMAGO

Spurs Must Choose Direction Carefully

This is a club at a crossroads. Postecoglou provided proof that progress is possible, even in the midst of fierce competition. But with his departure, Spurs risk undoing momentum for the sake of restructuring, a familiar trap in North London.

Van de Ven’s honesty adds to the sense of disquiet. He doesn’t speak like a player ready to revolt, but one trying to make sense of a decision that, in footballing terms, lacks logic. Tottenham can’t afford to misstep again. The next managerial appointment must be about more than a reaction, it must be about evolution.