What happened: Tottenham have paused their search for a new sporting director. Chief executive Vinai Venkatesham told the club's Fan Advisory Board on June 16 that the appointment was no longer a key priority and that the search would resume at the end of the summer transfer window. The role has sat open since Fabio Paratici departed in February for personal reasons.
Why it matters: The decision leaves Johan Lange, head coach Roberto De Zerbi and newly arrived director of football operations Rafi Moersen to drive recruitment this window. Venkatesham mounted a firm defence of Lange despite fan criticism following back-to-back 17th-place finishes, while club leadership branded the 2025-26 campaign unacceptable after survival was secured only on the final day.
By the numbers: Spurs finished 17th in each of Lange's two full seasons at the club. Relegation was avoided by a final-day win over Everton. Moersen, formerly of City Football Group, began work on June 16 with a remit spanning recruitment, player transactions, infrastructure, player care and the women's team.
What to watch: Watch whether Tottenham revisit the appointment once the window closes, and how the Lange-De Zerbi-Moersen structure shapes the club's summer signings.