Tottenham Hotspur are facing a stormy period as managerial tensions rise, with head coach Igor Tudor reportedly losing the respect of some players. The situation has intensified following the team’s poor form, culminating in a heavy 2–5 defeat to Atletico Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16. Despite mounting pressure, Tudor is expected to remain in charge for the Premier League clash against Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, March 15, 2026.
A Record-Breaking Downturn
The recent Champions League loss added to a string of disappointing results for the North London club. Tottenham have now suffered six consecutive defeats for the first time in their history, with four of those losses coming under Tudor, who replaced Thomas Frank. Central defender Micky van de Ven described the atmosphere as approaching “apocalyptic” conditions, highlighting the severity of the crisis.
The streak has placed Tudor’s future under scrutiny. Although his contract runs until the end of the season, speculation about his potential departure continues to grow.
Controversial Goalkeeper Decision
The latest controversy emerged prior to the Atletico Madrid match, when Tudor made the surprising decision to bench first-choice goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario. In his place, young Antonín Kinsky was handed his Champions League debut. The move backfired immediately: Kinsky conceded three goals within the first 15 minutes, two stemming from distribution errors, forcing Tudor to substitute him out in the 17th minute.
Reports indicate that Tudor offered no reassurance to Kinsky during the substitution, a move that reportedly unsettled other players in the dressing room. The 22-year-old Czech goalkeeper now faces the possibility of seeking a transfer this summer.
Tudor’s Position Still Holding… For Now
Despite the pressure, Tudor is expected to manage the team at Anfield. Sources from The Guardian suggest that the Croatian coach is committed to leading Spurs in the Liverpool fixture. However, his tenure beyond the next match against Nottingham Forest remains uncertain.
According to Daily Mail, Tottenham CEO Vinai Venkatesham held discussions with Tudor and his coaching staff on Wednesday morning. The management’s decision to keep Tudor in charge until at least the pre-match press conference is largely due to a lack of immediate alternatives.
High-profile candidates like Roberto De Zerbi and Xabi Alonso are reportedly difficult to secure, especially with Tottenham just one point above the relegation zone. Former Nottingham Forest manager Sean Dyche is considered the leading candidate to replace Tudor.
Insights from Harry Redknapp
Former Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp revealed that he had not been officially contacted by the current board, though he did speak with ex-executive Daniel Levy. Levy, who still owns over 29% of the club, told Redknapp that had he retained executive control, he would have brought him back as head coach until the end of the season.
“It was interesting to hear him say, ‘If I were still in charge now, I definitely would bring you back,’” Redknapp told talkSPORT.
Tensions Within the Dressing Room
The Athletic reports that unrest extends beyond the coaching staff. Internal friction among players has reportedly emerged, with some perceived as lacking motivation to fight against the looming threat of relegation. One unnamed player allegedly expressed little concern over the club’s struggles, citing an already secured future elsewhere.
Such revelations have amplified scrutiny over the team’s morale. On-field frustrations are also evident; Van de Ven described the defeat to Atletico Madrid as “everything going wrong,” stressing the negative impact on both the squad and individual players, especially goalkeepers.
“This is a very tough period. We have a crucial match this weekend that I cannot play due to suspension. It’s a really bad time, truly terrible,” Van de Ven admitted.
Pressure to Deliver
As Spurs prepare for a crucial clash against Liverpool, the urgency to stabilize results and restore team cohesion has never been higher. Every decision made by Tudor will be under scrutiny, both from players and supporters. The next fixtures may determine not only Tottenham’s league standing but also the future of their embattled head coach.
Conclusion
Tottenham Hotspur are navigating a highly precarious period, marked by poor performances, dressing room tensions, and managerial uncertainty. Igor Tudor’s controversial decisions, particularly regarding goalkeeping, have contributed to internal unrest, while results continue to pile pressure on the Croatian coach. As the Premier League battle intensifies, Tudor faces the dual challenge of earning back player respect and steering Spurs away from relegation threats. The forthcoming matches, starting with Liverpool, could prove pivotal in defining both the club’s season and Tudor’s tenure.
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