By Gran Chico | March 11, 2026
The appointment of Igor Tudor as interim manager of Tottenham Hotspur in February 2026 was meant to stabilize the struggling Premier League club. However, only weeks into his tenure, the Croatian coach is facing mounting pressure after a string of poor results that have deepened the club’s crisis.
Tudor was appointed on February 14, 2026, following the dismissal of Thomas Frank. The 47-year-old manager signed a short-term deal running until the end of the season, with the immediate task of steering Spurs away from the relegation zone and restoring stability within the squad.
A Manager Known for Mid-Season Turnarounds
Before joining Tottenham, Tudor had built a reputation as a manager capable of rescuing struggling teams. The former Croatia international defender, who previously played for clubs such as Juventus FC and Hajduk Split, transitioned into coaching in 2013.
His managerial career has taken him across Europe, including spells at PAOK FC, Galatasaray, Udinese Calcio, Hellas Verona FC, SS Lazio and Olympique de Marseille.
At Lazio in 2024, Tudor successfully guided the Italian side to a seventh-place finish and qualification for the UEFA Europa League after taking charge late in the season. Tottenham’s sporting director Johan Lange had expressed confidence in Tudor’s leadership when announcing the appointment.
Poor Results Continue to Mount
Despite expectations of a quick turnaround, Tudor’s start in North London has been extremely difficult.
Tottenham have lost their first four matches under his leadership, conceding 14 goals while scoring only five. The run represents the worst start by any Spurs manager and has extended the club’s losing streak to six matches in all competitions.
The poor run began with a 4–1 defeat to Arsenal FC on February 22, followed by a 2–1 loss to Fulham FC on March 1. Spurs then suffered a 3–1 home defeat against Crystal Palace FC on March 5, before being heavily beaten 5–2 by Atlético Madrid in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first leg on March 10.
Difficult Night Against Atlético Madrid
The Champions League clash against Atlético Madrid highlighted Tottenham’s struggles. Young goalkeeper Antonín Kinský, making his debut, made errors that led to two early goals and was substituted after just 17 minutes.
Tudor later defended the decision, saying the substitution was meant to protect both the player and the team. The young goalkeeper left the pitch visibly emotional but received encouragement from fans, while veteran goalkeeper David de Gea also offered support on social media.
Pressure Mounting at Spurs
Despite the poor results, Tudor has remained defiant in interviews, insisting he still believes he can turn the situation around. He has acknowledged, however, that Tottenham faces deeper internal challenges that require attention beyond the pitch.
Critics have questioned his tactical decisions and team selections, particularly after Spurs conceded three goals before halftime against Crystal Palace despite taking an early lead.
Fight for Survival
As Tottenham prepare for crucial upcoming matches in both the Premier League and Champions League, Tudor’s immediate priority is clear — secure results and pull the club away from the relegation battle.
With the season approaching its decisive stages, the Croatian manager still has an opportunity to change the club’s fortunes. But if results do not improve quickly, Tottenham may be forced to look for a new direction when the season ends.
For now, Igor Tudor’s short tenure at Tottenham stands as a reminder of the unforgiving nature of top-level football, where fortunes — and managerial careers — can change within weeks.
