Tottenham have sacked manager Nuno Espírito Santo two days after the humiliating 3-0 loss at home to Man United. The former Wolves boss had been appointed this season only, but after an inconsistent start to the season coupled with really poor performances, he was relieved of his duties. The manager had reported today for training as usual, where he was told of the decision made by Daniel Levy.
Not since the 2008/09 season have Spurs lost five games in their first 10 games of the season. But more than the results, it was the lackluster the performances that were more concerning. Spurs didn’t muster a shot on target against United, in fact they have failed to do so since the first half against West Ham. Other stats also aren’t much promising either.
Tottenham are ranking way below expected levels in terms of shots on target per match, big chances created, goals per match etc. They have been completely outplayed in most of the matches, even those in which they won.
Former Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has emerged as the favourite to replace Nuno. Conte has been out of job since leaving Inter at the end of last season and reportedly turned down Spurs before they turned to Nuno. The Italian was also linked to Man United as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s successor.
Nuno’s ill-fated tenure comes to an end
Whether it was the players not adapting to the Portuguese’s philosophy or the philosophy itself, something didn’t feel right about Spurs this season. They did start with three successive wins and topped the table at the first international break. Arguably their best performance came on the opening weekend against champions Man City. But the signs of frailties were there when they won against Wolves having been completely outplayed.
After the international break, the first big blow was delivered as Crystal Palace tore them 3-0. That started a run of three successive London derby embarrassments, culminating in the most painful one at Arsenal. Two wins followed but the performances were still poor. West Ham beat them last week and Man United delivered the final knockout punch for Nuno. Spurs haven’t won any game by more than one goal and the form of some key players hasn’t been good enough. Harry Kane, for example, has scored just one goal in the Premier League this season.
Is Conte the right man for Tottenham?
Given his history with Chelsea, he perhaps won’t be warmly accepted by the Spurs fans. But he’s a serial winner, an experienced coach and a master tactician, so he will be a massive appointment for Tottenham. That being said, he will have a massive job on his hands trying to establish an identity for the club.