GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - MAY 24: Ange Postecoglou is seen at the end of the Cinch Scottish Premiership match between Celtic and Aberdeen at Celtic Park Stadium on May 24, 2023 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Ange Postecoglou: From South Melbourne to North London

Ange Postecoglou, a figure revered in Australian football, has taken another seismic stride in his storied career. The Athens-born player-turned-manager, celebrated for his contributions in Australia, Japan, and Scotland, is on the brink of a monumental move to Tottenham Hotspur, one of the English Premier League's most iconic clubs.

The rumour mill in the UK suggests that Ange Postecoglou has informed his present club, Glasgow Celtic, about his intent to seize the opportunity presented by Tottenham Hotspurs's chairman Daniel Levy. His sterling record at Celtic, with five trophies in two years, validates the interest from the North London outfit.

Esteemed football journalist and transfer news guru, Fabrizio Romano, indicated that the proposed deal involves a two-year contract, with a possible extension for a third year.

To appreciate this development, let's revisit Postecoglou's journey to this juncture.

Postecoglou began his footballing journey with South Melbourne FC, earning two championships during his tenure from 1984 to 1993. An overseas spell with Greek outfit, Panachaiki, also features in his playing career.

The switch to coaching commenced at South Melbourne in the mid-90s, culminating in his elevation to head coach in 1996. His influence led to back-to-back NSL titles and the Oceania Club Championship.

Coaching stints with the Australian U-20 and U-17 national teams were preceded by a transformative period at Brisbane Roar in the A-League Men's competition. His tactical revolution resulted in a record 36-match unbeaten run and two consecutive A-League titles.

The success at the Brisbane Roar earned him a move to Melbourne Victory, and eventually, the coveted role of coaching the Australian men's national team, the Socceroos. He led the team to their first major international victory, the 2015 Asian Cup, and steered them to the 2014 and 2018 FIFA World Cups, thus cementing his stature.

Post-2017, he ventured overseas to manage Yokohama F. Marinos in the J1 League, winning the 2019 J1 League title and becoming the first Australian coach to clinch a top-tier championship abroad.

His stint at Celtic, despite initial criticism, has been a resounding success, highlighted by a league/cup double and a historic treble this season.

As he approaches the cusp of the Premier League, Postecoglou's successful journey through Australia, Asia, and Europe secures his status as a trailblazer in Australian football. His possession-heavy, aggressive, and attacking philosophy will now be put to the test in the world's most competitive league.