Tottenham Hotspur have announced that they have sacked interim head coach Cristian Stellini ahead of Thursday night's Premier League clash with Manchester United at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Spurs chairman Daniel Levy has made the decision to relieve the Italian of his duties following Sunday's embarrassing 6-1 defeat to Newcastle United at St James' Park. Spurs found themselves 5-0 down after just 21 minutes on Tyneside, resulting in many of their fans exiting the stadium well before half-time.
Stellini was appointed as the club's interim head coach on a deal until the end of the season last month following Antonio Conte's exit. Stellini was formerly Conte's assistant and had worked with him for more than a decade.
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Issuing a statement on Spurs' club website on Monday afternoon, Levy said: "Sunday's performance against Newcastle was wholly unacceptable. It was devastating to see. We can look at many reasons why it happened and whilst myself, the Board, the coaches and players must all take collective responsibility, ultimately the responsibility is mine.
"Cristian will leave his current role along with his coaching staff. Cristian stepped in at a difficult point in our season and I want to thank him for the professional manner in which he and his coaching staff have conducted themselves during such a challenging time. We wish him and his staff well."
Levy has also confirmed that former Spurs midfielder Ryan Mason will take over as head coach with immediate effect, meaning he will take charge of Thursday night's tussle with the Reds. Mason previously stepped into the hot seat in 2021, acting as interim boss after Jose Mourinho's departure.
"Ryan Mason will take over Head Coach duties with immediate effect," Levy added. "Ryan knows the Club and the players well. We shall update further on his coaching staff in due course.
"I met with the Player Committee today (Monday) - the squad is determined to pull together to ensure the strongest possible finish to the season. We are all clear we need to deliver performances which earn your amazing support."
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