Thomas Frank’s Tottenham move is a gamble — but one he’s earned

Thomas Frank has built a reputation as a manager who finds solutions — and now he faces his biggest challenge yet: solving the enigma that is Tottenham Hotspur.

The 51-year-old Dane leaves the structure and unity of Brentford for a Spurs side defined by inconsistency, internal pressure, and a history of short-lived managerial tenures.

Frank replaces Ange Postecoglou, the coach who finally brought silverware to North London after 17 years by winning the Europa League — and yet, was still shown the door after finishing 17th in the Premier League.

It’s a move that represents both risk and opportunity. Frank now leads a Champions League-qualified squad, but under the famously demanding chairman Daniel Levy.

Why Frank?

Frank’s work at Brentford was admired across the football world. He guided the club to Premier League promotion in 2021 and kept them there for four seasons, often defying expectations.

“He sees problems and solves them,” said fellow Dane and former Liverpool midfielder Jan Molby.

“That’s a great strength for any manager to have.”

Despite key setbacks — such as Ivan Toney’s betting ban and eventual sale — Frank adapted by building a new attack around Bryan Mbeumo (20 goals, 7 assists) and Yoane Wissa (19 goals, 4 assists), finishing 10th in 2024–25.

Frank’s tactical adaptability, use of set-pieces, and aggressive pressing game caught the eye — even Pep Guardiola once said it was “only a matter of time” before Frank made the jump to a top club.

Style of Play Fit at Spurs

Molby believes Frank’s philosophy fits Tottenham’s squad:

“He likes to put opponents under pressure — in open play, set-pieces, and even long throws. He’s not afraid to play long or quick when needed. He’s adaptable.”

Frank has gradually shifted Brentford away from a reliance on set-pieces, reducing their goal share from 33% to around 21% in recent seasons. This evolution shows he is not rigid, a trait that could serve him well at Spurs.

Man-Management Strength

Frank is widely respected for his honesty, clarity, and communication, making him an ideal leader for a squad still processing Postecoglou’s abrupt exit.

“Players will like him,” Molby added. “He’s clear about what he expects and has time for people. He doesn’t play mind games.”

That emotional intelligence, combined with a clear footballing philosophy, gives Frank a strong platform — but he must succeed quickly to avoid becoming another casualty of the Spurs managerial carousel.

The Bigger Question: What Is Success at Spurs?

Even Postecoglou’s Europa League triumph wasn’t enough to secure a third season. That sets an uneasy precedent for Frank.

“Ange wasn’t sacked for being disliked. He was respected by players. That’s unusual. Normally a new manager arrives after the old one’s been forced out — not here,” said Molby.

A top-five finish might be the new benchmark, but given Spurs’ poor league form last season, that’s a massive ask — even with Champions League football secured.

Verdict: Risky? Yes. Deserved? Absolutely.

Frank has earned this opportunity. From coaching Denmark’s youth teams and working in a kindergarten, to leading Brentford to stability in the world’s toughest league, he now takes centre stage at one of Europe’s biggest clubs.

If he can bring clarity, adaptability, and connection to a club desperate for stability, this gamble may well pay off — for both manager and club.