Report: Former striker is a ‘dark horse’ to land Tottenham Hotspur job | OneFootball

Robbie Keane Emerges as Surprise Contender in Tottenham’s Managerial Search

Tottenham Hotspur’s turbulent season has pushed the club into a period of deep reflection, and speculation around the next permanent manager is already intensifying. According to reporting from Give Me Sport, there is a growing belief that a familiar name could enter the frame alongside more established candidates.

The original report from Give Me Sport highlights a surprising possibility, with Robbie Keane described as a “dark horse” candidate to take charge of Spurs if a managerial change arrives in the summer.

With Tottenham fighting to secure Premier League survival, the club’s hierarchy appears to be preparing for multiple scenarios.

Pochettino and De Zerbi Lead Tottenham Shortlist

Give Me Sport senior correspondent Ben Jacobs reports that Spurs are prioritising two high profile candidates should the club remain in the Premier League. Mauricio Pochettino and Roberto De Zerbi are seen internally as the leading options.

As stated in the original report, “Tottenham have two main candidates for the manager’s job in the summer.”

Photo IMAGO

Pochettino’s connection with the club continues to resonate among supporters and decision makers. His previous spell transformed Spurs into Champions League finalists and consistent top four contenders. Meanwhile De Zerbi’s reputation for progressive football has made him one of the most sought after coaches in Europe.

The Give Me Sport article also notes that De Zerbi’s availability may depend on Tottenham retaining their top flight status. The report explains that “it seems unlikely that the out-of-work De Zerbi would take the job if Tottenham did end up going down”.

That scenario alone highlights the fragile position Spurs currently occupy in the table.

Robbie Keane Named as ‘Dark Horse’ Candidate

While the headline names dominate the discussion, Give Me Sport suggests a far more unexpected option could be considered if circumstances change.

“Former striker Robbie Keane is also emerging as a strong contender,” according to the report.

Photo: IMAGO

Keane’s managerial journey is still relatively young but has already delivered promising results. Currently managing Ferencvaros, the former Tottenham striker has built a solid record in Hungary. The Give Me Sport article states that he “has won 42 of his 69 matches in charge of the Hungarian giants, with a win rate of 61%”.

For Spurs supporters, Keane remains one of the most iconic forwards of the modern era. His connection with the club and understanding of its culture could prove appealing if Tottenham are forced into a reset.

The report raises a compelling point about the Irishman’s potential role in a worst case scenario. “You do wonder that if the worst did happen for Tottenham this season, if Robbie Keane could be a realistic option to be their manager in the Championship next season.”

That possibility would represent a bold but emotionally resonant appointment.

Survival Battle Shapes Tottenham Decision

At present, Tottenham’s immediate priority remains clear. Securing Premier League safety will define the club’s options when the managerial decision arrives.

The Give Me Sport report stresses that survival would “give them the best chance of landing their preferred target”.

Recruitment figures Johan Lange and Vinai Venkatesham are understood to be weighing long term direction alongside the urgent fight for points on the pitch. For Igor Tudor and his squad, every match now carries huge consequences.

Tottenham’s next managerial appointment could shape the club for years. Whether that path leads back to a familiar architect like Pochettino, a tactical innovator such as De Zerbi, or a romantic return for Robbie Keane remains uncertain.

For now, the idea of Keane as the “dark horse” candidate adds another fascinating twist to an already unpredictable situation.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Tottenham supporters have reached breaking point, and it is impossible to ignore the anger building around the club after the humiliating 3-1 defeat at home to Crystal Palace. Spurs now sit one point above the relegation zone with nine games remaining. For a club that talks constantly about long term planning, this situation is nothing short of disgraceful.

Igor Tudor has now lost all three of his games in charge and the team looks completely lost. There is no structure, no leadership and no belief. Fans leaving the stadium on Wednesday night were not debating tactics, they were asking a far simpler question, how did Tottenham become this bad.

The idea that the club might already be discussing replacements shows how quickly confidence has collapsed. Mauricio Pochettino returning would ignite the fanbase immediately. Roberto De Zerbi would also bring a sense of modern tactical identity.

But the suggestion of Robbie Keane has sparked genuine debate among supporters. Some fans would welcome the passion and connection he has with the club. Others fear it would be another sentimental appointment without the experience needed in a relegation fight.

And if that nightmare happens, Spurs will need more than a dark horse. They will need a complete reset.