Tottenham Hotspur has issued a club statement of 368 words in an attempt to justify the dismissal of manager Ange Postecoglou.
Spurs confirmed on Friday afternoon that Postecoglou would not return for a third campaign that was in charge after his vacation after the season.
His resignation was announced only 16 days after he supervised a famous victory over Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League final.
That victory sealed a place in the Champions League of next season.
However, as stated in Friday's statement, Postecoglou also supervised the worst Premier League season of the club, which resulted in a 17th place after 22 defeats.
“After an overview of the versions and after an important reflection, the club can announce that Ange Postecoglou has been relieved of its duties,” the explanation began.
'Ange came from Celtic in the summer of 2023 and supervised a period of change on the field, and returned us to the attacking brand of football that is traditionally associated with the club, while he wrote a new chapter in our history by leading us to UEFA Europa League Glory in Bilbao – a performance that will always live with us.
'We are very grateful for his efforts and contribution during his two years at the club. Ange will always be remembered as only the third manager in our history to deliver a European trophy, in addition to legendary figures Bill Nicholson and Keith Burkinshaw.
'However, the board unanimously concluded that it is in the best interest of the club for the change. After a positive start in the Premier League (PL) season 2023/24, we recorded 78 points of the last 66 PL matches. This culminated in our worst PL finish last season. Sometimes there were mitigating circumstances – injuries and then a decision to prioritize our European campaign. While winning the Europa League is one of the biggest moments of the club this season, we cannot base our decision on emotions that are tailored to this triumph.
'It is crucial that we can compete on several fronts and believe that a change in approach will give us the strongest chance for the coming season and afterwards. This is one of the most difficult decisions we have to make and is not a decision that we have made light, nor a decision that we have rushed to conclude. We have taken what we believe is the right decision to give us the best chance of success in the future, not the easy decision.
'We have given us a talented, young team and Ange has given us a great platform to build. We would like to express our gratitude to him. We wish him the best for the future – he will always be welcome at our home.
“News about the appointment of a new head coach will be announced in due course.”
More to follow.