Tottenham Manager: Igor Tudor Offered Job, Robbie Keane Rejects Interim Role

Tottenham Hotspur are moving swiftly to appoint an interim manager following the dismissal of Thomas Frank earlier this week, with Igor Tudor emerging as the leading candidate. While the club searches for a short-term solution, the long-term picture remains focused on a potential return for Mauricio Pochettino, though that move is contingent on the conclusion of his duties with the United States national team after this summer’s World Cup.

Sources indicate that Tottenham have been offered and are seriously considering, the 47-year-old Tudor, who was most recently in charge of Juventus before departing in October 2025. The former Croatia international defender has also managed at Lazio, Marseille, and several other clubs across Europe. He was also reportedly considered by Nottingham Forest.

The appointment of an interim manager suggests Tottenham are deliberately keeping the position open for Pochettino, should he express interest in rejoining the club. Pochettino enjoyed a successful five-year spell at Tottenham before being sacked in November 2019, and is reportedly open to a return to the Premier League.

However, the path for Pochettino isn’t immediate. His commitment to the US national team through the 2026 World Cup finals means any return to Tottenham would have to wait until after the tournament concludes. Prior interest in Roberto De Zerbi, formerly of Marseille, has cooled, as the Italian tactician is currently not seeking a new managerial position.

Alongside Tudor, former Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig manager Marco Rose is also in contention for the interim role. The club is seeking a manager capable of making an immediate impact as they battle to maintain their Premier League status, currently sitting 16th in the table and five points above the relegation zone.

Meanwhile, a familiar face has ruled himself out of the running for the interim position: Robbie Keane. The former Tottenham striker, currently managing Ferencvaros, has expressed interest in eventually taking the reins at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, but not on a temporary basis. Keane, who previously managed Maccabi Tel Aviv to a league title and recently secured a championship with Ferencvaros, is keen on a long-term project.

“Robbie Keane’s camp have confirmed to me that he would not consider taking the job on an interim basis,” a source revealed. Keane himself recently acknowledged the speculation surrounding his potential return, stating, “I can’t help speculation,” but reiterated his satisfaction with his current role at Ferencvaros.

The situation highlights Tottenham’s complex managerial search. They need a manager to stabilize the team in the short term, while simultaneously planning for a potential future with a highly sought-after figure like Pochettino. The club’s decision to pursue an interim appointment underscores this strategy, allowing them to assess their options and potentially position themselves for a more significant appointment down the line.

Other names have also surfaced in connection with the Tottenham job. Manchester United’s interim manager, Michael Carrick, is reportedly under “senior consideration” at the club, while a Tottenham legend has also emerged as a shock candidate for the interim role. However, at present, Igor Tudor appears to be the frontrunner to take charge until the end of the season.

The coming weeks will be crucial for Tottenham as they navigate this managerial transition and strive to secure their Premier League future. The appointment of an interim manager is just the first step in what promises to be a pivotal period for the North London club.