Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou remarked, “I always win things in my second year,” following their 1-0 defeat to Arsenal in the north London derby. Gabriel’s header from a corner secured the win for the Gunners, moving them into second place.
Despite Postecoglou’s arrival raising expectations, Spurs have only secured one victory in four Premier League matches this season. The former Celtic boss is now in his second year with Tottenham, having guided them to a fifth-place finish in the 2023-24 campaign.
When questioned after the loss about his pre-season comment stating that “usually in my second season I win things,” Postecoglou reflected on his remark.
He told Sky Sports: “I’ll correct myself – I don’t usually win things, I always win things in my second year. Nothing’s changed.
“I’ve said it now. I don’t say things unless I believe them.”
Postecoglou expressed confidence that Tottenham can “absolutely” contend for silverware this season, despite the club’s last trophy being the 2008 League Cup—their only title in the 21st century.
The 59-year-old manager has a history of success in his second season at previous clubs, having won league titles with South Melbourne, Brisbane Roar, and Yokohama F. Marinos in Australia and Japan, respectively.
He also led Australia to victory in the Asian Cup two years after taking over as head coach, and claimed two consecutive Scottish championships during his time with Celtic.
However, Postecoglou acknowledged that he did not complete two seasons at the three clubs where he didn’t secure any titles—Panachaiki, Whittlesea Zebras, and Melbourne Victory, where he left after 18 months to take the Australia job.
Former England defender Matt Upson, watching the game for BBC Radio 5 Live, said: “Tottenham are so susceptible defensively that it’s a real problem.
“They are not being clinical enough either which is what the real hammer blow is.
“If you’re going to be that offensive and that open and free, you’ve got to bang the ball in the back of the net and they’re not doing that.
“The pressure is going to start to build a bit on the manager.”