Journalist reveals how Ange Postecoglou reacted behind the scenes to Tottenham’s 2-0 defeat vs Manchester City

Journalist Charlie Eccleshare has revealed how Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou reacted to Spurs’ 2-0 defeat against Manchester City. 

Tottenham’s performance in their final home game was a disappointing one, specially given the magnitude of the game.

It was a huge match, considering that a win would have ensured that they remained in the fight for the top 4.

However, a Manchester City defeat meant, not only would their hopes for Champions League next season be dashed, City would become the favourites to win the Premier League ahead of their arch rivals Arsenal.

The fact that Spurs could help their main rivals lose the title was a tempting one for many fans, as a big segment of the supporters rooted for a defeat, much to the manager’s annoyance.

The mood around the stadium seemed to impact the players as well, as their performance did not match the occasion.

The magnitude of the game, combined with the disappointing performance from the Spurs players, left Postecoglou far from pleased.

Speaking to The Athletic Football Podcast, Eccleshare revealed how the Tottenham manager reacted behind closed doors.

Despite maintaining a composed demeanour in his public statements, the Australian reportedly did not hold back in criticising his team after the final whistle.

He said:

“Jack and I have both been told that he was pretty angry at the players after this game, despite the fact that publicly, he didn’t criticise them. And we saw in the Chelsea game where they lost 2-0, he was furious at some of the players, screaming at them to play the ball forward, not to go backwards.”

“His thing is always he’s never going to call someone out for making a mistake, but he will call people out for not playing the way that he wants them to play, not taking chances, not being brave on the ball, not showing for the ball, not passing forward.”