Tottenham Hotspur must decide this week whether to retain Ange Postecoglou as manager, with the club facing a £4million compensation bill should they choose to dismiss him.
The Australian coach guided Spurs to Europa League glory last month, securing their first major trophy in 17 years and their first European silverware since 1984. Despite this achievement, the club's 17th-place finish in the Premier League represents their worst league position since relegation from the top flight in 1977.
The stark contrast between European success and domestic failure has placed Postecoglou's position under scrutiny, with a verdict on his future expected imminently as the club undergoes significant changes behind the scenes.
Financial considerations weigh heavily in the decision-making process. Postecoglou has already received a £2million bonus for delivering the Europa League trophy.
Reuters | Daniel Levy may need to pay up to £4million to oust Ange Postecoglou
Should Tottenham opt to terminate his contract, which has two years remaining, they would owe him approximately £4million in compensation according to terms agreed upon his appointment two years ago.
The Telegraph report that this figure was established as part of his initial contract negotiations.
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The financial burden could escalate significantly if Spurs pursue a replacement currently employed elsewhere, potentially pushing the total cost beyond £10million.
This substantial outlay comes as the club navigates broader organisational changes, including the departure of long-serving executive director Donna-Maria Cullen and the anticipated arrival of Vinai Venkatesham as CEO.
PA | Ange Postecoglou led Tottenham to a trophy this summer - the first time Spurs have won something since 2008
Postecoglou, who has returned from his end-of-season holiday to await the club's decision, expressed bewilderment at the speculation surrounding his position.
"I'll be honest, I've been finding it really weird talking about my future when we've done something unprecedented," the Australian said following the final day defeat to Brighton.
"I've had to answer the questions because no one else at the club is kind of in the position to do so, I guess.
"But I can't answer that question about me and my future, and part of me is kind of thinking, well, why have I been asked that question?"
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He remains optimistic about the club's potential trajectory regardless of the outcome.
"And I've got no doubt, though, that this could be a real sort of defining moment for this club because wherever I've been, I've kind of made an impact where I've brought success to a club that hasn't had for a while," Postecoglou continued.
"You just have to look at those clubs' trajectory even after I've left, they're still competing for things.
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"I really think this is a moment in time where this club can really push on and be a real contender for honours on a yearly basis."
The manager's domestic struggles were compounded by successive injury crises throughout the campaign.
His trusted assistant Ryan Mason has already departed to become West Bromwich Albion manager, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the coaching setup.