The Spurs' Elite: Ranking the 7 Best Tottenham Managers in History

7. John Cameron

1899–1907

 Tottenham Hotspur, FA Cup 1900-1901.
DT: John Cameron.

The Emirates FA Cup
 Pelota Azteca pic.twitter.com/GBie1LT39B

— Pelota Azteca (@pelotaazteca16) March 10, 2024

Let's journey back to 1899 when John Cameron assumed the dual role of player-manager at Tottenham Hotspur, then competing in the Southern Football League. During this period, Spurs achieved a historic feat by becoming the first lower-division team to come from behind and defeat top-flight opposition in an FA Cup tie, with Cameron scoring the decisive goal against Sunderland himself.

Under Cameron's leadership, Tottenham clinched the Southern Football League title in 1900 and achieved an even greater triumph in 1901 by winning the FA Cup. This victory solidified Tottenham's distinction as the only club outside the English League to claim this prestigious trophy. At the turn of the century, Spurs embodied the essence of an underdog, capturing the nation's imagination with their footballing prowess.

Cameron resigned from his managerial role in March 1907, but his achievements firmly established his legacy in Tottenham's history. From the outset, he made a profound impact, arguably laying the foundation for the club's future identity and success.

6. Harry Redknapp

2008–2012

Harry Redknapp is a widely beloved figure in football, admired not just in north London but across the sport. His tenure as Tottenham’s manager is often underrated, despite his pivotal role in leading the club into the Champions League. Taking over from Juande Ramos in October 2008, a move facilitated by Spurs paying £5m in compensation to Portsmouth, Redknapp's leadership was marked by astute signings in each transfer window.

A strategic spending spree in January 2009 propelled Tottenham to eighth place and a berth in that year's League Cup final, narrowly losing to Manchester United on penalties. Redknapp continued to strengthen the squad in the summer of 2009, acquiring players like Peter Crouch, Sebastien Bassong, and his preferred choice, Niko Kranjcar. In the 2009/10 season, Redknapp guided Spurs to one of their most successful Premier League campaigns, securing fourth place with 70 points. His achievements earned him the Premier League Manager of the Year award.

Tottenham defied their lack of Champions League experience by reaching the quarter-finals before bowing out to Spanish giants Real Madrid. Following this achievement, Redknapp led the team to a fifth-place finish, followed by another top-four finish the subsequent year.

Despite guiding Tottenham to their second fourth-place finish in three years, contract negotiations between Redknapp and the club broke down, resulting in his dismissal. Many viewed this decision as unjust, failing to acknowledge the significant strides he made in elevating the club to new heights.

5. Keith Burkinshaw

1976–1984

Keith Burkinshaw, despite a challenging start, is regarded as one of Tottenham Hotspur's most successful managers, second only to Bill Nicholson in terms of major trophies won. Burkinshaw secured four honors for the club, including two FA Cups, one UEFA Cup, and one Charity Shield. His tenure began on a difficult note with the team's relegation in his first season in charge. However, demonstrating resilience, Burkinshaw promptly guided Tottenham back to the top flight and made bold signings, notably bringing in the Argentine duo of Ossie Ardiles and Ricky Villa.

These signings were initially seen as risky but proved instrumental as both players delivered memorable performances, endearing themselves to Spurs fans. Under Burkinshaw's guidance, Tottenham achieved the rare accomplishment of winning consecutive FA Cup titles in 1981 and 1982.

Despite disagreements with the board leading to an unfortunate end to his tenure, Burkinshaw's legacy at Tottenham is firmly established by the silverware he brought to the club, cementing his place among the most celebrated managers in Spurs' history.

4. Martin Jol

2004–2007

Martin Jol made a significant transition from assistant to manager during his tenure in north London, taking over from Jacques Santini and swiftly shifting away from a defensive philosophy. His approach quickly attracted attention from Ajax early in his managerial career at Spurs, but Jol remained committed and guided Tottenham to a ninth-place finish, narrowly missing out on a UEFA Cup spot by just two points.

The 2005/06 season marked Jol's standout year. Tottenham maintained a consistent top-six position throughout the campaign and appeared poised for a top-four finish. However, their aspirations were derailed by the infamous 'Lasagna Gate' incident, where the squad fell ill before their crucial final game against West Ham United, resulting in a fifth-place finish. Despite this setback, Jol's impact was clear, as Tottenham achieved their highest league finish since 1990 under his management.

The subsequent year saw Spurs achieve another fifth-place finish under Jol, ensuring consecutive seasons of European football. His tenure fostered a positive atmosphere throughout the club, uniting players and fans alike. However, his successful run came to an abrupt halt due to tensions arising from a contentious transfer window.

In the summer of 2007, Tottenham made several high-profile signings without Jol's involvement. This included missing out on the acquisition of Bulgarian winger Martin Petrov, a move that exacerbated Jol's frustration over the lack of control he had in transfer decisions.

3. Arthur Rowe

1949–1955