Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino has expressed his desire to return to the club one day, coinciding with the current tumultuous season under manager Ange Postecoglou. Pochettino, now coaching the United States men’s national team, made these remarks during his recent interview with Sky Sports, where he reminisced on his special bond with Spurs and the team’s supporters.
Pochettino, who managed Spurs from 2014 until his dismissal in November 2019, led the club to numerous achievements, including finishing second in the Premier League during the 2016-17 season, reaching the 2015 EFL Cup final, and most famously, the UEFA Champions League final in 2019. Despite the accolades, critics often point out his lack of silverware during his tenure, but many supporters regard him as the manager who elevated Tottenham to title contenders.
“When I left the club I always remembered one interview I said I would like one day to come back to Tottenham,” Pochettino said. “Even after six years, I still feel in my heart yes, I would like one day to come back.” He emphasized the significance of his time at Spurs and the emotional memories built during his tenure, stating, “It's true after nearly six years with all the ups and downs, it was tough because of all the emotional things we lived.”
His relationship with Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy remains strong, reinforcing the possibility of his return. “I think we split very well. One thing was professional, another personal, and now we always keep a very good relationship,” he mentioned. Pochettino still maintains communication with Levy, which could pave the way for future discussions about rejoining the club.
Currently, Tottenham is facing severe challenges under Postecoglou, sitting 14th place in the Premier League with only 34 points from 29 matches as of March 18, 2025. The team recently suffered their 15th league defeat, losing 2-0 to Fulham, intensifying pressure on Postecoglou. Many fans and pundits are voicing their concerns, with former manager Harry Redknapp stating Postecoglou might need to secure the UEFA Europa League title to remain at the helm.
Reports suggest Pochettino is being considered as a candidate to replace Postecoglou if things don’t improve. Pochettino himself admitted, “I am not going to talk about [returning], but I still would like to come back.” The odds for his return have decreased dramatically from 20/1 to 11/2 since his interview, indicating growing public interest and speculation.
While Pochettino gears up to lead the United States team for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, many speculate on how his international experience could differ from his club management days. This full-circle moment highlights both the nostalgia Spurs fans feel and the practical challenges facing the current team.
Spurs’ immediate future hinges on their performance against Eintracht Frankfurt next month, as they strive for glory in the Europa League. Fans and pundits alike await the outcome with bated breath, pondering if the club might eventually welcome back their beloved manager, Pochettino. The situation echoes stories of successful comebacks of notable managers, presenting hope for Spurs supporters yearning for stability and success.
Above all, Pochettino’s call to return rouses fond memories for many Spurs fans and indicates a longing for the positive energy he brought during his time. With every match, both the players and management will grapple with the future, as whispers of Pochettino’s return linger on the edges of Tottenham’s narrative.
