Thomas Frank in action for Spurs vs Arsenal in 2025

Thomas Frank backed for patience as Tottenham pressure grows

Adem Ozcan Last updated: Jan 27, 2026, 12:27 pm
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Image: IMAGO / Sportimage

Tottenham Hotspur have been urged to show restraint over Thomas Frank’s future, with former Spurs sporting director Frank Arnesen calling for patience amid mounting domestic pressure.

Frank has come under increasing scrutiny following Tottenham’s poor run in the Premier League, where results have failed to match expectations after his appointment last summer. With Spurs slipping into the bottom half of the table, questions have begun to surface around whether the club’s hierarchy could be tempted into a mid-season change.

Speaking to Ekstra Bladet, Arnesen – who previously held a senior role at Tottenham – offered a strong defence of his fellow Dane, stressing that context matters when assessing Frank’s situation.

Arnesen urges Tottenham to stay patient with Frank

Arnesen highlighted several mitigating factors that may be influencing Tottenham’s form, including injuries and the level of backing provided by the board. He warned against rushing to judgement so soon after a managerial appointment.

“There needs to be patience,” Arnesen explained, pointing out that Frank has only been in the role for a short period. He suggested that internal assessments should go beyond results alone, focusing instead on player development, dressing-room control and the broader trajectory of performances.

When asked directly whether he believes Frank will see out the season, Arnesen struck a balanced tone.

“I can only say that I hope so. I admire him. But he has to win the games. That’s how it is, and he knows it.” — Ekstra Bladet

“Are they ice-cold?” – pressure at the top

Arnesen also reflected on the realities of elite football management, suggesting that Tottenham’s leadership will ultimately decide Frank’s fate based on a wide range of indicators.

“It’s a tough world, but that’s what they’re paid for,” he said. “It’s about how the top of the club is. Are they ice-cold? Can they see if he’s still in control of the changing room? Are the players slowly getting better?”

He added that injuries could be playing a decisive role, noting that losing four or five key players can quickly derail results, regardless of tactical planning. For Arnesen, those nuances should not be ignored when evaluating the manager’s position.

Domestic struggles versus European progress

Tottenham’s league form has been the primary source of concern. Spurs currently sit 14th in the Premier League after a five-match winless run, collecting just three points during that spell. The lack of consistency has fuelled speculation about possible alternatives in the dugout.

However, the picture in Europe has been more encouraging. Frank has overseen a strong Champions League campaign, with Tottenham delivering important results against high-level opposition.

Their recent victory over PSV has left Spurs well placed to reach the knockout stages, and they travel to Frankfurt on Wednesday night knowing that a win would secure automatic qualification.

Key Insights

  • Frank Arnesen has publicly backed Thomas Frank amid Tottenham pressure
  • Spurs sit 14th in the Premier League after five games without a win
  • Arnesen believes injuries and board support must be considered
  • Tottenham have impressed in the Champions League despite domestic issues
  • A win in Frankfurt would confirm automatic qualification

What’s Next

Tottenham’s immediate focus shifts to Europe, where Wednesday’s trip to Frankfurt could significantly ease the pressure on Frank if qualification is secured. Domestically, upcoming league fixtures will remain crucial, as improved results would quickly change the narrative around his future. Much will depend on whether Spurs can translate their European performances into Premier League consistency over the coming weeks.

Should Tottenham stick with Thomas Frank until the end of the season, or does their league position demand quicker action?

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