"He constantly spoke to players about Arsenal, quickly frustrating them," a Tottenham insider told the British newspaper Telegraph. "Even before and after the derby at Emirates stadium, Frank discussed Arsenal's quality. Many in the squad felt: 'Please stop talking about Arsenal.'"

Tottenham players grew more frustrated when photos leaked showing Frank drinking from an Arsenal-logoed cup before their team's 2-3 loss to Bournemouth. Some squad members reportedly circulated these images, making the 52-year-old Danish coach a laughingstock in the media.

Head coach Thomas Frank speaks with defender Ben Davies after Tottenham's 0-3 loss to Nottingham Forest at City Ground, Nottingham on 14/12/2025. Photo: Reuters

Frank faced constant pressure from both media and fans in recent weeks due to a string of poor results. Chants for his dismissal and messages opposing the coach echoed from the stands. Despite guiding Tottenham directly into the Champions League knockout stage, he failed to turn the team's domestic fortunes around.

Tottenham had not won in the Premier League since 28/12/2025, with a run of eight matches comprising draws and losses. They earned only two points from their six most recent matches. A dismal 1-2 home defeat to Newcastle on 11/2 proved to be the final straw for the club's board.

Frank won only seven and lost 11 of his 26 Premier League matches, leaving Tottenham 16th and just five points above the relegation zone when his dismissal was announced. The team was also eliminated from the FA Cup in the third round by Aston Villa and exited the League Cup in the fourth round after losing to Newcastle.

According to the British newspaper Daily Mail Sport, Tottenham CEO Vinai Venkatesham and Sporting Director Johan Lange were reluctant to sack Frank, but the team's Premier League standing left them no alternative. The decision was reported to the Board of Directors and the Lewis family was consulted before the final call.

Two days after Frank's dismissal, Tottenham appointed Igor Tudor as interim head coach until the end of the season. The 47-year-old Croatian manager will debut when Tottenham faces Arsenal in the North London derby on 22/2.