Tottenham Hotspur’s captain, Son Heung-min, has expressed his admiration for Ange Postecoglou, who was dismissed from his managerial role on Friday. Son remarked that Postecoglou had significantly ‘altered the course of this club’ by securing their first trophy in 17 years.
Under Postecoglou’s guidance, Tottenham triumphed in the Europa League final last month, defeating Manchester United 1-0 to claim their first European title in four decades and guarantee a spot in the Champions League for the upcoming season.
However, the 59-year-old Australian ultimately paid the price for Tottenham’s most disappointing domestic season since their relegation in the 1976-77 season.
With 22 losses in 38 Premier League matches, Tottenham finished 17th in the standings, only just above the relegated teams of Leicester, Ipswich, and Southampton.
In a heartfelt tribute shared on Instagram, Son conveyed how Postecoglou had revolutionised the club.
“Gaffer, you’ve altered the trajectory of this club,” Son wrote.
“You believed in yourself and in us from day one, unwavering even when others faltered.
“You recognised our potential all along. You did it your way, and that way delivered this club its most memorable night in decades. Those memories will last a lifetime.”
Having witnessed five managerial changes in just six years under chairman Daniel Levy, Son acknowledged the strong bond he developed with Postecoglou during his two-year stint.
“You entrusted me with the captaincy,” stated the 32-year-old star from Korea.
“It’s been one of the greatest honours of my career. It has been a remarkable privilege to learn from your leadership up close.
“I am a better player and a better person because of you.
“Ange Postecoglou, you will forever be a legend of Tottenham Hotspur. Thank you, mate.”
The club faced a series of injuries, and in the latter part of the season, Postecoglou prioritised keeping his key players healthy and ready for the Europa League.
The strategy proved successful, but even winning Tottenham’s first trophy since the 2008 League Cup wasn’t sufficient to save the former Celtic manager from the axe.
Brentford’s Thomas Frank, Fulham’s Marco Silva, Oliver Glasner from Crystal Palace, and Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola are reportedly the frontrunners to succeed Postecoglou.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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