Opinion: Thomas Frank’s first five tasks at Tottenham: Heung-min Son talks and PSG prep
Following the appointment of their 16th manager in the last 24 years, we have now sat down to analyse what Thomas Frank’s first five tasks at Tottenham could include.
Thomas Frank is set to begin his job as head coach of Tottenham Hotspur, following his appointment less than a week after Ange Postecoglou’s sacking.
The Danish manager has signed a three-year deal that is expected to keep him at Hotspur Way until the summer of 2028.
A few of Thomas Frank’s trusted backroom staff have also joined him in his switch to Tottenham, as the new manager aims to improve the club’s league fortunes after a dismal 17th-place finish last term under Ange Postecoglou.
But before Tottenham take to the pitch for their opening fixture of the 2025/26 season, the new Spurs manager has a handful of issues to address, and we have highlighted five that stand out.
Thomas Frank must convince Cristian Romero to stay at Tottenham
One of Thomas Frank’s first tasks will be to convince Cristian Romero to remain at Tottenham Hotspur, with the Argentine’s future uncertain following reported interest from Spain.
Tottenham are said to be keen on keeping Romero at the club, with fresh contract talks expected to begin in the coming weeks.
However, Romero’s cryptic message hours after Frank’s appointment, which many viewed as a dig at the club, suggests that Frank may have his work cut out.
A frank discussion over Romero’s intentions will be essential before any decisions can be made about the 27-year-old defender.
Heung-min Son’s future must be clarified by Thomas Frank
Cristian Romero is not the only senior figure whose future is unclear, with club captain Heung-min Son also linked with a potential move to Saudi Arabia.
Reports have claimed Tottenham are open to selling Son forward this summer, as they look to cash in before his contract expires at the end of next season. That said, Spurs are not expected to push Son out, with the forward likely to decide his fate.
Last season’s 11 goals and 11 assists were underwhelming by his standards, and with his 33rd birthday approaching in July, Frank must quickly initiate talks to find the best solution for both sides.
Heung-min Son Stats (Premier League 2024-25) | |
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Appearances: | 30 |
Goals: | 7 |
Expected goals (xG): | 7.28 |
Scoring frequency: | 302min |
Assists: | 9 |
Big chances created: | 16 |
Successful dribbles: | 1.0 (41%) |
Thomas Frank must rebuild Tottenham squad morale after Ange Postecoglou’s departure
Tottenham players were quick to pay tribute to Ange Postecoglou after his sacking, with many thanking him for his support and guidance, especially after he delivered silverware.
Given how several senior players, including Heung-min Son, who described Postecoglou as a Tottenham legend, paid their tribute, it is evident that the squad held the Australian in high regard.
Still, these Spurs players must now move forward, as some within the Tottenham squad are said to have been upset by the decision to part ways with the Australian, with speculation growing that certain players may be considering their futures.
Thomas Frank’s well-known player-first approach, where he likens his treatment of players to parenting, could prove crucial in winning over a group that was loyal to his predecessor.
Frank must align transfer plans with Daniel Levy and Johan Lange
With the summer window already open, Thomas Frank’s immediate focus will naturally turn to the transfer market and how best to strengthen this Tottenham side.
It is understood that Tottenham are looking to reinforce their defence, midfield and attack, with some of their early targets already being approached by rival clubs. Frank must now sit down with Daniel Levy, Johan Lange and Fabio Paratici to align on priorities.
While Frank may not hold the final say on transfers, he is expected to be involved in the recruitment process. Reports have already linked Tottenham with a move for Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, a player Frank knows well, and an opening bid is believed to have gone in.
Bryan Mbeumo Stats (Premier League 2024-25) | |
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Appearances: | 38 |
Goals: | 20 |
Expected goals (xG): | 12.26 |
Scoring frequency: | 171min |
Assists: | 7 |
Big chances created: | 17 |
Successful dribbles: | 1.4 (53%) |
Tottenham vs PSG Super Cup clash presents first big test for Thomas Frank
Winning over the players and fans will be important, and an early opportunity to do so comes in the form of a major final.
Tottenham will face Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Super Cup in Udine, Italy, marking Frank’s first competitive fixture in charge.
The Danish manager, who is yet to lift a major trophy in his career, will be eyeing this as the perfect stage to make an instant impact.
With belief already building among the Tottenham support, preparation for this clash will be high on his agenda, and a strong performance could set the tone for the season ahead.
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