Tottenham Hotspur are facing a defining moment in their season, with growing uncertainty surrounding Ange Postecoglou’s future as manager.
Alongside their struggles domestically, Spurs are in a precarious position in the Europa League after a 1-0 defeat to AZ Alkmaar in the first leg of their Round of 16 tie.
With the second leg at home, Postecoglou’s side must produce a much-improved performance to keep their European campaign alive.
Perry Groves: Ange Postecoglou’s future to be decided this week
Former Arsenal forward Perry Groves believes that Postecoglou’s future hinges on the outcome of this crucial fixture. He suggested that if Tottenham fail to progress past AZ Alkmaar, the Australian’s time at the club could be coming to an end.
According to Groves, this match is the most significant of Postecoglou’s career, as it could determine whether he remains in charge beyond this season.
The pundit also stressed the importance of Micky van de Ven’s presence in the squad, noting that the Dutch defender’s speed and composure provide much-needed assurance at the back. Having him in the starting lineup could make a significant difference in Spurs’ defensive stability against AZ Alkmaar.
Speaking on talkSPORT, Groves said:
“I will guarantee you that Micky van de Ven will play on Thursday because they look more assured with him at the back.
“He just gives everybody else a little bit more calmness because he’s so quick.
“This is going to be the biggest game of his (Postecoglou’s) career on Thursday here against AZ because his job rests on that game.
“If they go out and don’t win that game he gets the sack and it might be at the end of the season.
“But there will be no future for him if they don’t win that game and win the Europa League.”
Ange Postecoglou has had a poor second season at Spurs
Tottenham’s recent league form has only added to the pressure on Postecoglou. Currently sitting 13th in the Premier League table, Spurs played out a disappointing 2-2 draw against Bournemouth over the weekend. Despite showing resilience by coming back from a two-goal deficit, they remain winless in their last three matches across all competitions.
With their chances of securing European qualification through the league all but gone, winning the Europa League is now Tottenham’s best—and only—path back to the Champions League.
Securing silverware would not only mark the club’s first major trophy since 2008 but could also play a vital role in shaping their long-term future.
