Tottenham Hotspur have decided to make a decisive change on a day filled with symbolism. This Saturday, February 14, on Valentine’s Day, the north London club officially announced the appointment of Igor Tudor as their new interim head coach in an attempt to steer the team away from the Premier League relegation zone.
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The Croatian strategist takes charge following the dismissal of Thomas Frank just three days ago, but his task will not be simple. He inherits a side that has collected only 29 points, two ahead of Nottingham and five clear of West Ham United, who currently sit in the relegation zone.
After a 2-1 defeat to Newcastle United that triggered boos from the stands, the club opted to end Frank’s tenure, as he failed to replicate at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium the success he previously achieved with London rivals Brentford.
For his part, sporting director Johan Lange justified the appointment by highlighting the new manager’s character: “Igor brings clarity, intensity and experience to take charge in difficult moments and make an impact. Our objective is simple: stabilize performances, maximize the quality within the squad and compete strongly in the Premier League and the Champions League.”
Who is Igor Tudor? The profile of Spurs’ new “firefighter”
Igor Tudor, 47, is a former footballer and a manager with extensive experience across southern Europe’s top leagues. As a player, he stood out primarily as a central defender for Juventus and was also a key member of the Croatia national football team that finished third at the 1998 World Cup in France.
He has been managing since 2013 across nine different clubs, including major names such as Juventus, Lazio, Udinese, Olympique de Marseille and Galatasaray. His profile is associated with strict tactical discipline, non-negotiable physical intensity and a highly competitive character.
However, Tudor arrives in London seeking redemption of his own. His most recent spell in Italy ended abruptly when Juventus dismissed him on October 27 after eight matches without a win, including three consecutive defeats.
