Tottenham have Luis Enrique on top of their managerial shortlist as Antonio Conte’s departure seems inevitable.
According to The Athletic, Luis Enrique has emerged on top of Tottenham’s shortlist to replace Antonio Conte. Meanwhile, the Spanish boss has been out of work since leaving his position with the Spanish national side, while the Italian’s position seems unattainable at Spurs.
It’s been a rough few weeks at Tottenham, with the team seemingly unable to bring consistent results on board. Since their win over Chelsea at home, Tottenham have faltered on three fronts. Their disappointing defeat to Sheffield United in the FA Cup was only the beginning of what was to come.
They have since lost to Wolves in the Premier League and could only manage a tame draw at home to AC Milan, which knocked them out of the Champions League. Many of Antonio Conte’s decisions were reportedly criticised as Spurs could not trouble Mike Maignan’s goal.
Conte’s departure seems inevitable in the game’s aftermath, which has been the case for months. It has been clear since December that a new contract for the Italian may not transpire. Neither are Spurs eager to trigger an extension in his deal that originally expires in the coming summer.
Conte, on his side, seems uninterested in leading Spurs into the next phase despite constant talk of a slow and steady rebuild. Tottenham fans may feel the club had wasted time with the Italian, who came in with a reputation for winning trophies wherever he managed. Conte might return to Inter Milan, who remain interested in re-signing him.
Tottenham now wants to evaluate several names who could succeed the Italian at the helm. A return for Mauricio Pochettino is being mooted, but Real Madrid are also chasing the Argentine manager. The former PSG boss could also return to north London, but the club wants to keep their options open.
As per the report, Luis Enrique may be on top of their shortlist. The former UCL winner leaves a job after leaving his position with the Spanish national side after the World Cup. He is also a target for Chelsea if they end up sacking Graham Potter in the summer.
Enrique remains known for his attacking football and has succeeded with Barcelona. He was their manager when they won the treble in 2014/15 and has since not managed at the club level. He is well-placed to take up a role at a major club in England or Spain, with Atletico Madrid also keen on signing him.
For now, Tottenham may begin with their process of contacting Enrique about the potential job. The decision will depend on the former UCL winner. In the past, many high-profile managers have rejected the idea of joining Spurs. They might struggle again to make ends meet with their latest managerial search.
