Spurs Fire Frank: Arteta Reacts as North London Derby Looms

Spurs Fire Frank: Arteta Reacts as North London Derby Looms

Arthur Jones
Arthur Jones
Published: Feb 11, 2026

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed his sympathy for Thomas Frank after he was sacked by rivals Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday. Spurs sit only five points clear of the Premier League's relegation zone having failed to win a single game in domestic competition in 2026, despite managing to finish fourth in the league phase of the Champions League.

Tottenham's Managerial Merry-Go-Round Spins Again

The axe has fallen at Tottenham, and frankly, it felt inevitable. After a disastrous run of form and simmering internal tensions, Thomas Frank has been relieved of his duties, plunging Spurs into further uncertainty just days before the monumental North London Derby.

Key Points:

  • Thomas Frank sacked as Tottenham head coach after just months in charge.
  • Spurs recorded their worst-ever Premier League 'big-six' club managerial run under his tenure.
  • Reports suggest player discontent stemmed from Frank's perceived 'love-in' with rivals Arsenal.
  • Mikel Arteta expressed sadness but highlighted the ruthless nature of top-flight management.

Tottenham's Spiraling Crisis Deepens with Frank's Exit

Tottenham Hotspur announced Wednesday the departure of Thomas Frank from his position as Men's Head Coach. The decision comes amidst a brutal period for the club, which has seen them slide perilously close to the relegation zone after eight league matches without a win. This managerial change signifies the growing panic within the club.

A Season of Underperformance

Appointed in June 2025, Frank's tenure at Spurs was short-lived and marked by significant struggle. The club's statement acknowledged the board's determination to offer support, but ultimately, "results and performances" necessitated a change. Statistically, his reign has been historically poor, marking him as the worst-ever manager of a traditional Premier League 'big-six' club based on points per game.

The Arsenal Obsession: A Cauldron of Contention?

Beyond the dire results on the pitch, intriguing reports from the Daily Telegraph suggest an unusual factor contributing to Frank's downfall: his repeated praise of arch-rivals Arsenal. This perceived 'love-in' allegedly sowed seeds of discontent within the Tottenham dressing room.

Dressing Room Disquiet and Fan Fury

Players reportedly grew "sick of it," with sources indicating Frank would "constantly go on" about Arsenal's quality, even before and after matches. This went further than the squad, as fans were also irked by his mentioning of Arsenal's 'Invincibles' and being seen with an Arsenal-branded cup. Such actions, regardless of intent, are anathema to the deeply ingrained rivalry and likely undermined his authority.

Arteta's Measured Response Amidst Rival Turmoil

Across North London, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta offered a poignant reaction to the news of Frank's sacking. Speaking at a press conference, Arteta called it "very sad news," praising Frank as "an excellent coach" and "extraordinary man." His comments offered a glimpse into the camaraderie, but also the cut-throat reality, of top-tier football management.

The Brutal Reality of Management

Arteta acknowledged the intense pressure, stating, "We know where we are. We know that our responsibility is beyond just performance." He reflected on the Premier League's shifting landscape regarding managerial longevity, noting that while eras with figures like Arsène Wenger and Sir Alex Ferguson were long, the modern game demands immediate results. Ultimately, having players' belief and winning games are paramount for survival.

North London Derby on the Horizon: New Era or Continued Crisis?

With the manager gone, all eyes turn to Tottenham's immediate future, specifically the impending North London Derby against Arsenal next Sunday. Spurs desperately hope to appoint an interim or permanent successor before this crucial fixture. Their last victory over the Gunners dates back to May 2022, adding extra weight to the upcoming clash. This swift change aims to inject new life, but the club remains in crisis mode, with a daunting task ahead.