Thomas Frank has only led Tottenham for less than 6 months and has only coached less than 20 matches in all competitions, but the former Brentford coach is now entering a difficult period after the defeat at the Emirates.
Losing to Arsenal is always a painful experience in the North London derby. And apart from Richarlison's beautiful goal, this was truly a match lacking bright spots for Spurs under Frank.
Although Tottenham have a chance to rise to fourth place if they win this match, that result seems unlikely. The defensive tactic that Frank applied to put safety first increased the dissatisfaction in the fan community with his approach.
This was Frank's fifth defeat in 19 games, and he really needs to change. However, Spurs still have many challenges ahead. After visiting Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League, they will host Fulham at home - a must- win match - before traveling to St James' Park to face Newcastle.
If the pressure is still there, Frank's next match will be against Brentford at home. This is an extremely important challenge and could decide the future of the coach who is under a lot of pressure.
Thomas Frank's excessive caution
Frank insists he did not come to the Emirates just to draw 0-0 and insists his side want to win. However, there is no sign of that ambition, as Arsenal's defense is completely unchallenged.
"The Rooster" ended the first half without a shot. They made 90 passes compared to Arsenal's 233, and the playing plan is almost unclear.
Frank admitted his mistake at half-time when he dropped a centre-back to make way for Xavi Simons - the player he signed up for after missing Morgan Gibbs-White and Eze in the summer of 2025. However, all changes are too late. This was Spurs' first away defeat under Frank, and he was responsible for how the game went.
"I always believe that any system can operate effectively. I understand this question and always take full responsibility. Today we didn't play well, the responsibility belongs to me.
I chose a 5-4-1 formation, which changed right after the break and just one minute later we conceded, to 0-3. Everyone knows the rest.
No matter which system we play, we still have to be stronger in the challenges, we have to put better pressure. It doesn't depend on the formation, and I take full responsibility," Frank said when asked about the defensive lineup.
Richarlison's super product is overshadowed
The Gunners are leading 3-0 and playing very convincingly, while fans are excited by the complete dominance of the home team. Then Tottenham suddenly had their first shot in the match, xG was only 0.02, but it was done perfectly.
Palhinha deserved to receive a lot of praise for applying high pressure and stealing the ball from the midfield. However, Richarlison's boldness and confidence in deciding to shoot the ball was the difference. Choosing the right time to shoot when Raya had not yet retreated was really surprising.
Unfortunately, this great result was just a rare bright spot in Tottenham's forgettable match.
