When Ange Postecoglou first arrived at Celtic Park, even he acknowledged the skepticism. “Let’s not beat about the bush, I was a joke when I was appointed,” he famously stated. Fast forward two spectacular seasons, and that so-called ‘joke’ has transformed into one of the most sought-after tactical minds in football, now taking the helm at Tottenham Hotspur. This is the story of a revolutionary manager whose philosophy and relentless drive turned doubters into devotees, a journey we at Jeetwin have followed with keen analytical interest.
The Unlikely Architect of Celtic’s Dominance
Few in Glasgow had heard of Ange Postecoglou when he arrived from Yokohama F. Marinos in 2021. His tenure began with a defeat at Hearts, fueling the initial doubts. However, what followed was a masterclass in rebuilding and tactical innovation. Postecoglou didn’t just win; he dominated, playing a brand of football that was as effective as it was exhilarating. He systematically reclaimed the Scottish Premiership title from Rangers and, in his final act, secured a domestic treble, etching his name alongside just four other Celtic managers to achieve this historic feat.
His departure leaves a monumental legacy at Parkhead. While Celtic fans mourn his exit, the Tottenham faithful are buzzing with anticipation, albeit mixed with questions. But if history has taught us anything, it’s that doubting Ange Postecoglou is a fool’s errand.
The Master of Recruitment and Market Value
A cornerstone of Postecoglou’s success was his revolutionary approach to the transfer market. He looked east, tapping into the J-League—a market previously overlooked by many European clubs—to unearth incredible value and talent.
His most stellar signing was undoubtedly Kyogo Furuhashi. Purchased for a mere £4.5m from Vissel Kobe, the striker’s value skyrocketed as he became a goal-scoring phenomenon. Finishing the recent season as the Scottish Premiership’s top scorer with 27 goals and sweeping the Player of the Year awards, Kyogo embodies Postecoglou’s eye for talent.
He was not alone. The January 2022 signings of Reo Hatate and Daizen Maeda created a formidable Japanese core at Celtic. Their immediate impact solidified the squad, with Hatate’s performances earning him a place on the PFA Player of the Year shortlist. Furthermore, the successful loan-then-permanent deals for Jota and ex-Spurs man Cameron Carter-Vickers demonstrated a strategic approach to building a long-term project.
Reo Hatate and Daizen Maeda, two key pillars of Postecoglou’s Celtic rebuild, arrived in January 2022.
Even the signing of goalkeeper Joe Hart, initially met with raised eyebrows, proved to be a masterstroke. The experienced Englishman became a reliable fixture, playing a pivotal role in all five trophies won under Postecoglou’s guidance.
A Proven Track Record of Winning
Postecoglou’s pedigree is not a recent development. His managerial journey is a global story of success. In his early 30s, he led South Melbourne to two titles. He then transformed Brisbane Roar from A-League strugglers to back-to-back Grand Final champions, orchestrating a record 36-game unbeaten run that captured Australia’s attention.
On the international stage, he managed Australia at the 2014 World Cup, won the Asian Cup in 2015, and secured qualification for the 2018 World Cup. His move to Japan culminated in guiding Yokohama F. Marinos to their first J-League title in 15 years, breaking the dominance of traditional powerhouses.
In Scotland, his record was nothing short of spectacular: five domestic trophies from a possible six, including a historic treble. While European success remained elusive, his Celtic side earned plaudits for their courageous and attacking performances against giants like Real Madrid in the Champions League, often being undone only by a lack of clinical finishing rather than tactical naivety.
Celebrating another title win, a familiar sight for Postecoglou during his transformative two years in Scotland.
The Premier League Question: Is He Ready?
The inevitable question arises: does a man who has conquered Australia, Japan, and Scotland have the experience for the ruthless Premier League? Postecoglou himself would dismiss the premise. At his Celtic unveiling, he retorted, “I have coached at a World Cup, I have coached against some of the best teams in the world.”
His self-belief is absolute. He was unfazed by being perceived as a backup option after Eddie Howe’s deal fell through, focusing only on the opportunity itself. This single-mindedness, this unwavering belief in his “process,” is what separates him. He doesn’t see a jump in standard; he sees another challenge to conquer, another system to build. As one Jeetwin analyst noted, “His confidence isn’t arrogance; it’s a proven methodology waiting for its next canvas.”
The “We Never Stop” Footballing Philosophy
For Tottenham fans yearning for attacking football, Postecoglou is your man. His philosophy is built on an unwavering commitment to aggressive, possession-based, and entertaining football. His Celtic side shattered a post-war club record by scoring 114 league goals in a single season.
His system is a demanding 4-3-3:
- Goalkeepers and defenders must be playmakers, building from the back with courage.
- Inverted full-backs tuck into midfield, overloading central areas and allowing midfielders to push forward.
- Two attacking central midfielders relentlessly support the attack.
- Wingers are expected to attack the far post when the ball is on the opposite flank.
- The centre-forward is the beneficiary of a system designed to create a plethora of chances.
The mantra “We Never Stop” applies to everything—the relentless press, the quick recycling of possession, and even the ball attendants are trained to keep the game moving at a ferocious pace. It’s high-risk, high-reward football that electrifies fans and overwhelms opponents.
The Man Manager and Cultural Architect
Postecoglou is more than a tactician; he is a builder of cultures. “Just about every job I have had has been an extensive rebuild,” he has said. He thrives on creating something from scratch, implementing a major shift in both personnel and mindset.
He exerts control over the football department, fostering a culture of togetherness while maintaining a professional distance. He lets the dressing room lead itself on match days, preferring not to be swayed by personal friendships when making tough decisions. This approach commands respect and creates a environment where performance is paramount.
He also understands a club’s place in its community. He connected deeply with the Celtic support by representing the club with pride and integrity, rarely complaining about officials and always focusing on his team’s performance. He gave them a team they could be proud of, and they gave him their unconditional support in return.
Ange Postecoglou: Tottenham’s Jeetwin Revolution
Ange Postecoglou: Tottenham’s Jeetwin Revolution is underway. He arrives not as a joke, but as a proven winner with a clear, attacking identity. He is a master recruiter, a cultural architect, and a communicator who gets everyone to buy into his vision.
For Tottenham, a club craving direction and an exciting style, he represents a perfect fit. The Premier League should be prepared. The man who was once an unknown quantity is now a formidable force, and his relentless, attacking football is about to take center stage in North London.
What are your thoughts on Postecoglou’s appointment? Do you believe his philosophy can succeed in the Premier League? Share your opinions and join the conversation in the comments below.
