Mauricio Pochettino 'really sad' to see Tottenham in relegation struggle

Spurs sit 18th in the Premier League table, two points from safety with just four matches remaining, a stark contrast to the heights they reached under Pochettino between 2014 and 2019. During his tenure, the north London side finished as runners-up in 2016–17 and reached the 2019 Champions League final.

Speaking on The Overlap's Stick to Football podcast, Pochettino reflected emotionally on the club's struggles.

"I really love Tottenham," he said. "It's going to be an important part of my life as a coach and person. It's really sad because I know how the people are suffering there - inside the club and also the fans. It's difficult to accept."

Since his departure, Tottenham have experienced significant instability, appointing multiple managers - including current boss Roberto De Zerbi - as they attempt to steady the club. Despite ending their trophy drought under Ange Postecoglou with a Europa League triumph last season, their domestic form has declined sharply.

Pochettino, now in charge of the United States men's national soccer team, said he still takes pride in what his side achieved during a challenging period off the pitch. His spell coincided with major infrastructure projects, including the construction of a new stadium and training ground, while the team temporarily played home matches at Wembley.

"We were very competitive in difficult circumstances," he explained. "We spent 18 months without one signing - that was a record in the Premier League. We had money, yes, but not the type needed to take the last step towards winning."

He also revealed missed transfer opportunities, noting that players like Sadio Mane and Georginio Wijnaldum were targets but ultimately joined Liverpool - and later featured in the side that defeated Spurs in the Champions League final.

Despite Tottenham's current struggles, Pochettino has not ruled out a return to English football in the future.

"One day, yes, because I really like England," he said. "I think my profile - my human profile and coaching profile - matches very well with the Premier League."

For now, Spurs remain focused on survival. Their recent win over Wolves offered a rare boost, but injuries to key players - including Xavi Simons and Dominic Solanke - have added to the challenge ahead of a crucial run-in.