Mauricio Pochettino, who managed Spurs from 2014 to 2019 (taking them to the Champions League final and building one of their most exciting teams in decades), has repeatedly expressed a desire to return one day. He has spoken emotionally about having “unfinished business” in England and specifically at Tottenham, where he feels they were “so close” to major trophies.
Currently, he’s the head coach of the US Men’s National Team (USMNT), leading them into the 2026 FIFA World Cup (co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico) this summer. His contract focuses on that tournament, so he won’t be available immediately.
However, Tottenham’s current manager, Thomas Frank (appointed in the summer of 2025 after Ange Postecoglou’s sacking despite the latter winning the Europa League), is under massive pressure.
Spurs are struggling badly and/or sitting around 14th in the Premier League after a poor run, including recent losses like a 2-1 home defeat to West Ham that sparked fan chants of “you’re getting sacked in the morning.” Internal talks about Frank’s future are reportedly happening, and his job is at “serious risk.”
Multiple reports (from sources like Football Insider, talkSPORT, and others) indicate Pochettino is open to returning if/when Frank departs.
Tottenham has him high on their list of targets.
If Frank is sacked mid-season, Spurs would likely appoint an interim manager until the end of the campaign (to keep options open for the summer).
Pochettino could then arrive after the World Cup concludes in mid-2026, depending on how the USMNT performs (a disappointing tournament might free him up more easily).
He’s currently one of the favourites in betting odds for the next Spurs manager (around 8/1 in some lists, behind names like Oliver Glasner or Xabi Alonso, but rising fast due to his history with the club).
Fans and pundits see it as a potential “fairytale” or “sensational” homecoming — Pochettino remains hugely popular among Spurs supporters for the style of football and progress he delivered (even without trophies). He has a strong connection with Daniel Levy, and the timing could finally align after previous near-misses.
Of course, nothing is guaranteed — it depends on Frank’s fate, the World Cup outcome, and whether other big clubs come calling for Pochettino post-tournament. But as of mid-January 2026, the links are strong and credible, and it’s one of the hottest topics in the Premier League right now.
