Ange Postecoglou (59), the manager leaving Tottenham, said his goodbyes.

Tottenham announced on the 7th (Korea time) through the club's website, "After considerable deliberation, we decided to terminate Postecoglou's contract. Winning the UEFA Europa League is a remarkable achievement, but we had to make a rational judgment rather than allow our emotions to take charge. We wish him luck in his future endeavors."

Chairman Daniel Levy made the decision personally. The British media 'Telegraph' reported, "Postecoglou was dismissed just a few weeks after winning the UEFA Europa League (May 22). Tottenham confirmed the terms of his termination after he returned from vacation and prepared for an official announcement on Friday afternoon. Chairman Levy made the final decision, and the club internally communicated this information already."

'BBC' also reported that Postecoglou resigned from the Tottenham managerial position just 16 days after the Europa League final victory.

Postecoglou, who hails from Australia, took over as Tottenham's head coach in the summer of 2023 following Antonio Conte. Although he was evaluated to lack European experience outside of Celtic, he led Tottenham to the top of the Premier League with an aggressive strategy at the beginning of the 2023-2024 season, creating a buzz.

However, a monotonous attacking strategy and excessive game management led to a slump in the second half of the season. There were also injuries due to intense training. This season was no different. In the end, Tottenham collapsed sharply at the end of the season and suffered a 1-4 defeat against Brighton in the final match. With 11 wins, 5 draws, and 22 losses in 38 matches, they remained 17th in the Premier League with 38 points. This was the lowest ranking in the Premier League in the club's history as well as a tie for the most losses in a single season (22 losses).

Nevertheless, Postecoglou noted, "I have always won in my second year," and did not lose confidence. Ultimately, he fulfilled his promise by defeating Manchester United 1-0 in the UEFA Europa League final and lifting the trophy. Son Heung-min also embraced his first winning trophy.

However, Chairman Levy made the cold decision to dismiss Postecoglou. The 'Telegraph' reported, "This is the harshest decision of Chairman Levy's long tenure," adding, "Postecoglou fulfilled promises regarding victory, changes in playing style, and the utilization of young players, yet he was still dismissed."

Tottenham will have to pay Postecoglou a severance fee of approximately £4 million (7.4 billion won).

Candidates for the next manager include Thomas Frank (Brentford) and Marco Silva (Fulham). Andoni Iraola is likely to re-sign with Bournemouth.

'Telegraph' reported, "Chairman Levy is under pressure to appoint a successor better than Postecoglou. Frank lacks experience in European competitions, but Silva has experience in the Champions League," noting, "The public opinion among fans has changed with the Europa League win, but Chairman Levy's decision is expected to face significant backlash."

Postecoglou bid farewell to the fans. He said through social media, "Reflecting on my time as Tottenham's manager, the greatest feeling is pride. Leading one of the historic football clubs in England and regaining the glory (victory) they deserve is an experience I will cherish forever." He continued, "That night in Bilbao was the fruit of two years of effort, dedication, and an unwavering belief in our dreams. We faced many daunting challenges and fought amidst noise to accomplish what many believed was impossible."

He also expressed affection for the players and fans. Postecoglou said, "We laid the foundation so that this club doesn't have to wait another 17 years for its next success. I have tremendous trust in this squad and know that there are greater possibilities for growth. I also sincerely thank the supporters, the lifeblood of the club. There were tough times, but I always felt that the fans wanted me to succeed, which motivated me."

Finally, he concluded, "I thank those who were with me every day over the past two years. To the wonderful young players who have now become legends of this club and the excellent coaching staff who never doubted we could accomplish something special. We are forever connected. Act bravely."

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