Roberto De Zerbi's Tottenham Hotspur project has suffered a disastrous start to the 2026/27 Premier League season. Despite Spurs having a record-breaking transfer window and making a huge investment in strengthening their squad, the performances on the pitch have been simply awful. After three league games, Tottenham are still without a win following Saturday's goalless draw against Nottingham Forest.
The pressure on De Zerbi is therefore already immense. Tottenham backed the Italian heavily in the transfer market, making the lack of attacking output and poor results particularly concerning. If these underwhelming performances continue, Spurs could eventually be forced into the difficult decision of sacking their manager.
Here are five realistic candidates Tottenham could consider if De Zerbi loses his job.
5. Didier Deschamps
Least likely, but not impossible.
Didier Deschamps would be a fascinating option for Tottenham, although he is arguably the least realistic candidate on this list. The Frenchman left his position as France manager after the 2026 World Cup following an extraordinary 14-year spell in charge.
His availability makes the possibility more interesting than it would have been previously. Deschamps brings enormous experience, having won the 2018 World Cup and reached another final in 2022.
However, his pragmatic style would represent a significant departure from the football Tottenham presumably wanted when appointing De Zerbi. Still, if Spurs want experience and proven winning credentials, Deschamps cannot be completely ruled out.
4. Arne Slot
Arne Slot would be an ambitious appointment for Tottenham, particularly given his familiarity with Premier League football after winning the league with Liverpool. The Dutchman is currently available after leaving The Reds at the end of May 2026.
Slot's possession-based football and ability to develop attacking systems would make him an attractive option for a Tottenham squad built around expensive new additions.
The major question would be whether Slot would want to take on another Premier League project so soon after leaving Liverpool. Nevertheless, his knowledge of the league makes him one of the more intriguing possibilities.
3. Julian Nagelsmann
Julian Nagelsmann is another high-profile coach who has suddenly become available. The German left his position as Germany head coach following the country's disappointing 2026 World Cup campaign.
Nagelsmann's tactical flexibility and reputation for developing young players could make him an excellent fit for Tottenham. Spurs have invested heavily in their squad, and a manager capable of getting the best out of multiple attacking players could transform their fortunes.
His modern tactical approach would also make the transition from De Zerbi less dramatic than it might initially appear.
2. Gareth Southgate
Gareth Southgate would provide Tottenham with something they desperately need right now: stability.
The former England manager stepped down after Euro 2024 following an eight-year spell with the national team. During that period, he guided England to a World Cup semi-final and two European Championship finals.
Southgate's pragmatic approach may not excite every Tottenham supporter, but his experience managing elite players, handling pressure and building a strong team structure could make him a sensible appointment.
For a club that has struggled badly despite major spending, Southgate could offer a more conservative reset.
1. Eddie Howe
Eddie Howe could be Tottenham's most realistic option.
Howe became one of the Premier League's most respected managers during his nearly five-year spell at Newcastle United, transforming the club into a regular contender for European football before leaving in July 2026.
He knows the Premier League inside out, has experience rebuilding squads and has demonstrated that he can develop players while implementing an attractive style of football.
Most importantly, Howe is currently available. That could make him the easiest candidate for Tottenham to pursue if they decide De Zerbi's tenure has run its course.
With Spurs possessing an expensively assembled squad that needs structure, consistency and a clear identity, Howe could be the ideal manager to turn their huge investment into results if De Zerbi ends getting the sack.