Since Mauricio Pochettino’s departure in 2019, it’s safe to say Tottenham haven’t had managerial stability.
A lot has happened in the years that have followed, with the North London club finally breaking their trophy drought and edging perilously close to relegation.
However, after Thomas Frank’s sacking, reliable reports confirmed that Tottenham wanted to re-hire Pochettino and were even prepared to wait until the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Pochettino himself welcomed suggestions of a return to Hotspur Way, which made it clear that the admiration was mutual.
However, the Lilywhites quickly went ahead with Roberto De Zerbi after Igor Tudor’s departure, pouring cold water over claims that the Argentine was their top candidate.
And now, it appears as if Pochettino could be heading elsewhere after the World Cup.
Real Madrid following up on historic Pochettino interest
Real Madrid are in a spot of bother as they continue to remain on the lookout for a new manager.
After Xabi Alonso’s surprise dismissal earlier this year, Alvaro Arbeloa was appointed interim boss until the end of the season.
However, the Spaniard isn’t expected to get the job permanently, so the La Liga giants are evaluating their options.
Fabrice Hawkins of RMC Sport reports that Pochettino is ‘highly regarded’ by Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, who has gathered information on his personality and whether he can handle the pressure of managing a massive club.
Over the years, Los Blancos have been linked with Pochettino a handful of times, so their interest is definitely historical.
Hawkins also reports that the likes of Jurgen Klopp and Didier Deschamps are on Madrid’s radar as they look to shape a new era at the club.
Tottenham right to snub Poch
Make no mistake – everyone loves Poch for what he did for the club and he’ll always be remembered for his quality and class.
However, it’s been seven years since he left and if we’re being completely honest, his career hasn’t been an overwhelming success since.
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His stints with Chelsea and PSG were lukewarm at best and the jury is out on his time with the USMNT. We’re not saying he’s a bad manager, but Tottenham need fresh ideas and someone who can oversee a new era at the club.
Pochettino already did that once and we’re forever grateful. However, now, it’s time to give De Zerbi the keys and hope he gets the club out of this mess.
As for the Real Madrid links, it’s clearly an unbelievable opportunity if they eventually offer him the job.
However, their dressing room is filled with massive egos and managers get discarded like nobody’s business, so it’s probably not the right environment for someone like Pochettino.
