Ryan Mason, the interim manager of Tottenham Hotspur, has openly criticized chairman Daniel Levy for the club’s inconsistent hiring practices, suggesting that the constant change in management styles has adversely affected the players. With the possibility of Mason’s final match as interim boss approaching, his candid remarks point to his belief that Levy is responsible for the team’s on-field struggles this season. Tottenham now finds themselves in a challenging position, fighting to secure a European competition spot after plummeting from a top-four place to eighth in the Premier League standings following Antonio Conte’s departure.
Under Mason’s guidance, Tottenham has experienced a downturn, losing five out of their last seven Premier League matches, including a humiliating 6-1 defeat against Newcastle. However, it is noteworthy that Cristian Stellini, the predecessor to Mason, was in charge during that particular match. While acknowledging the team’s recent poor form, the 31-year-old manager has shifted some of the blame away from the players, asserting that Levy’s inconsistent approach to hiring managers with different tactical styles has been far from ideal. Mason expressed concern about the lack of stability and emphasized the importance of establishing a clear identity for the players and staff at the club.
Over the past two years, Daniel Levy has faced criticism for his managerial appointments. Following the sacking of Mauricio Pochettino in 2019, Levy brought in Jose Mourinho, Nuno Espirito Santo, and Antonio Conte, in addition to hiring Stellini as a temporary solution until the end of the season. Mason has been called upon to stabilize the team as a caretaker manager between these hires and sackings. Despite being a favorite among fans to secure the job permanently, it appears that Levy may overlook Mason, as Tottenham’s search for a new manager has faced multiple rejections.
The list of potential candidates who have declined offers from Tottenham continues to grow. Feyenoord boss Arne Slot, Julian Nagelsmann, and Vincent Kompany are among those who have reportedly turned down the club’s approach. The current frontrunner for the managerial position is Ange Postecoglou, the head coach of Celtic. However, it remains uncertain whether Postecoglou would be willing to leave his position as the Scottish champions’ coach.
“We’ve had two or three different styles of football over the last few years and I don’t think that’s helpful for any the players, the club or the staff,” Mason said.
“I would like people to know what to expect when you see a Tottenham player or anyone that works at the club.”
“I can’t sum it up because he’s still our player. When you sum something up it’s a closed chapter and you’re talking about […],” Mason said before resuming. “There needs to be a succession plan.
“That’s not talking about Harry, that’s talking about every player and member of staff.”
“There is work because we have a big squad, a lot of players on loan and decisions to make. First a lot of decisions to make about current squad,” he said. “Most important, work away from transfer window, need manager in place, commitment, an idea. You can’t do transfer business without a manager because doesn’t fit his idea.”
Mason was also asked about the future of star striker Harry Kane and the club’s contingency plan in case he leaves. With Manchester United rumored to be preparing a bid for Kane, whose contract expires next summer, the interim boss emphasized the need for a succession plan. He stressed the importance of having a plan in place for all players and staff members, rather than singling out Kane. The squad’s reinforcement will likely depend on Tottenham’s qualification for European competitions, as Brentford still has a chance to overtake them for eighth place and secure a Europa Conference League spot.
Mason highlighted the necessity of trimming the squad before considering new arrivals. Tottenham currently has a large squad, including several players out on loan, and decisions must be made regarding their futures. Additionally, Mason indirectly criticized Levy by questioning the pursuit of new players before appointing a new manager. He emphasized the importance of having a manager in place to ensure a cohesive plan and vision for the team, stating that transfer business should align with the manager’s ideas.