Postecoglou's second-season magic strikes again

The Australian manager appeared destined to repeat history, and on Wednesday, he fulfilled that pattern once more—guiding Spurs to a Europa League title, their first piece of silverware since 2008 and their first European crown in 41 years.

True to form, Postecoglou made good on what many saw as a bold prediction. Despite a disappointing domestic campaign, he had hinted as early as September that success might yet arrive.

Following a home defeat to Arsenal, the coach reiterated a recurring theme in his career: "I don't tend to win much, but I always win in my second year. Nothing's changed. I've said it before—I wouldn't say it if I didn't believe it."

Since breaking into senior management in 2009, Postecoglou has lifted trophies in Australia, Japan, Scotland, and now in England. With South Melbourne, he claimed the league title in his second campaign before taking roles in Australia's youth setup.

He later had brief stints at Panachaiki and Whittlesea, before enjoying greater success at Brisbane Roar—where he won the A-League in his second year after finishing runners-up in his first.

After managing the Australian national team, he joined Yokohama F Marinos in Japan, winning the J1 League title in his second season there. In June 2021, he took over at Celtic and won silverware from the outset.

But it's at Tottenham—following one season of steady transition and another marked by inconsistency—where Postecoglou has truly delivered against the odds.

In a campaign where the football was often less fluent than in his debut year, the result was more rewarding: a long-awaited European triumph that cements his remarkable second-season tradition.