Pep Guardiola has never been an ordinary coach who just stands on the sidelines and makes clubs stronger copies; he has always been a mind that reads beyond details: observing, analyzing, and accurately predicting. Guardiola has not only produced players but also coaches, such as Mikel Arteta, proving he has a keen eye capable of spotting marks even among his rivals.

Last season, while Thomas Frank was leading Brentford, Guardiola made a striking statement: “It’s only a matter of time before Thomas Frank becomes the coach of a major European club. I’m good at spotting excellent coaches.”

At the time, the statement was not taken seriously, even though Frank finished the season in tenth place, outperforming more established clubs. However, it seems the Danish coach took this as a challenge to prove that Guardiola was right in his assessment.

Tottenham’s management faced a tough choice during a turbulent summer, with fans demanding big names and the team coming off a disastrous league season that nearly ended in relegation, saved only by the Europa League title. Nevertheless, the management chose to bet on Thomas Frank.

The choice seemed strange at first but quickly proved its validity. From his first appearance with Tottenham in the UEFA Super Cup against Paris Saint-Germain, despite the loss, the team showed a new identity and a different spirit, as if Frank redefined the Spurs’ character.

Frank’s first impact was not only technical but psychological; the transformation seen in most veteran players reveals his ability to manage them mentally. Players became tougher, more motivated, and displayed a collective spirit the club had long missed. The most prominent example is Brazilian Richarlison, who transformed from a player on the transfer list to the fiercest striker upfront, with three goal contributions in the first two Premier League matches.

Regarding his tactical influence, just three matches were enough to reveal Frank’s ability to present a team with diverse styles. Against Burnley, he played high pressing and early ball recovery, while against Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City, he preferred defensive organization and counterattacks. Against City specifically, Frank imposed his plan and achieved a valuable victory.

Although it is still early to judge Tottenham’s season amid tough domestic and continental competitions, it is certain that Thomas Frank has firmly placed his name among the top coaches. What he started with Brentford was a promise, and what he is delivering with Tottenham today is living proof that Guardiola was right.