Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou launched a scathing rant, ripping into the club supporters after Tuesday’s gut-wrenching 2-0 defeat to Manchester City.
Spurs needed maximum points to keep their faint hopes of qualifying for the Champions League alive but fell short courtesy of a brace from Erling Braut Haaland.
Much of the pre-match discussion was about whether or not Spurs fans would take a defeat against Man City if it meant ruining Arsenal’s chances of winning the Premier League title.
That topic caused a shocking divide amongst the Spurs faithful, reflecting in a strange atmosphere during the game as anti-Arsenal chants were heard inside the stadium.
Spurs had a decent record against Man City before kick-off, having won four consecutive home games against Pep Guardiola’s side.
However, Man City have lost only thrice in the league this season. Their last defeat came against Aston Villa in December last year, so it was always going to be tough for Spurs to overcome the champions.
Their recent dip in form didn’t help either, losing four of their previous five league games (W1), but what transpired during the Man City clash didn’t sit well with Postecoglou.
The Australian didn’t pull his punches when delivering his verdict in his post-match press conference, admitting that the club’s foundation is fragile.
“The last 48 hours has revealed to me that the foundations are fairly fragile,” Postecoglou said (via Sky Sports). “Outside, inside, everywhere. It’s been an interesting exercise.”
Asked whether his comment was based on the desire of Spurs fans to stop Arsenal from winning the title, rather than focusing on the team, Postecoglou said: “I’m just not interested.
“Maybe I’m out of step, but I just don’t care. I just want to win. I want to be successful at this football club – it’s why I was brought in.
“So what their priorities are, are of zero interest to me. I know what’s important to build a winning team, that’s what I need to concentrate on.”
Despite the disappointment of missing out on a Champions League spot and having to settle for Europa League football next term, it can be considered a successful debut campaign for the Australian.
However, Spurs must ensure they finish the season strongly. They need at least a draw in the final game against Sheffield United to guarantee a fifth-placed finish or risk getting leapfrogged by a resurgent Chelsea.