Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou cautioned that if Spurs secure Champions League qualification, they should heed Newcastle’s challenging season as a cautionary tale.
Newcastle’s return to the elite European competition last season was met with anticipation, but they have grappled with the demands of competing on various fronts.
Currently, they trail Spurs by 13 points, sitting in eighth place ahead of Saturday’s encounter.
“Certainly there is a cautionary tale there,” the 58-year-old said.
“It has been tough on Newcastle this year because the progress last year was fantastic.
“The reward for that was Champions League and this year, for whatever reason, it has made it a really challenging season on all fronts for them.”
Postecoglou has reiterated that in his debut season at Tottenham since departing Celtic last year, his primary focus remains on implementing his style of football, rather than solely aiming for Champions League qualification, despite the potential financial benefits.
Over the past weekend, Spurs surpassed Aston Villa in the standings, achieving a superior goal difference with a game in hand over Unai Emery’s table-topping Arsenal, who are set to face Aston Villa on Sunday.
Nonetheless, Postecoglou emphasized that participating in the Champions League alongside domestic competitions can significantly strain a club’s resources.
Postecoglou has reiterated that in his debut season at Tottenham since departing Celtic last year, his primary focus remains on implementing his style of football, rather than solely aiming for Champions League qualification, despite the potential financial benefits.
Over the past weekend, Spurs surpassed Aston Villa in the standings, achieving a superior goal difference with a game in hand over Unai Emery’s table-topping Arsenal, who are set to face Aston Villa on Sunday.
Nonetheless, Postecoglou emphasized that participating in the Champions League alongside domestic competitions can significantly strain a club’s resources.