Back in April 2021, Tottenham and Daniel Levy were trying to find a replacement for José Mourinho, as Ryan Mason held the reins.
The likes of Julian Nagelsmann, Brendan Rodgers, Graham Potter and Erik ten Hag were mentioned, although Levy upset Spurs fans after initiating contact with Marcelino.
According to The Athletic, the 60-year-old held talks with the Spaniard about replacing Mourinho, but a move failed to materialise.
Eventually, the 56-year-old stayed at Athletic Bilbao, where he became something of a hero before announcing his departure yesterday.
What’s the story?
Well, Tottenham have found success with Antonio Conte now, although on this evidence, perhaps Marcelino would’ve been a better appointment than Nuno Espirito Santo.
In just over a year at Athletic Bilbao, Marcelino won the Supercopa de España, a run which included stunning wins over Barcelona and Real Madrid.
The Spaniard also came close to winning the Copa del Rey, only to unfortunately lose out to Valencia in the final.
In their announcement of his departure, Athletic Bilbao even state that Marcelino will go down in history.
He oversaw 75 games in total, winning 29 while averaging 1.49 points per game, while also watching his time score 96 goals and concede just 80.
In such a short space of time, Marcelino did a tremendous job, and he is now a free agent after deciding not to extend his one-year deal.
Tottenham should track Marcelino
There have been many rumours about Conte potentially joining Paris Saint-Germain, as doubts remain over Mauricio Pochettino.
Whether they are true or not, Levy must have backup options he can contact, if the unpredictable Italian surprisingly departs at any moment.
In our view, Spurs should continue to track Marcelino.
Levy obviously has his details, as they were said to have spoken in 2021, and on the basis of his job in Bilbao, he remains a fine coach.
Above all, we hope Marcelino enjoys a reenergising break, following his admirable success at Athletic Bilbao.
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