Tottenham Hotspur look to be closing in on another major overhaul at boardroom level as they intensify plans to modernise the club’s football structure. Trusted journalist David Ornstein reports that Spurs are deep in talks with Manchester City executive Carlos Raphael “Rafi” Moersen about appointing him as their new head of football operations.
If finalised, the move would underline Tottenham’s desire to recruit elite expertise from one of Europe’s most successful football setups. Moersen has spent the last decade within the City Football Group (CFG), an organisation admired across the game for its efficiency, innovation, and long-term planning. His possible arrival would represent another clear signal of intent from Spurs’ leadership as they seek stability after a turbulent spell both on and off the pitch.
Recent months have already brought notable structural changes. Peter Charrington was appointed non-executive chairman, while Fabio Paratici returned in October as joint sporting director alongside Johan Lange. Paratici’s reappointment was widely seen as an effort to reintroduce strong football knowledge into key decision-making processes.
In that context, Moersen’s appointment could be a crucial next step. Tottenham believe he has the ability to unify recruitment policy, contract negotiations, and long-term squad planning—areas in which Manchester City have set the modern benchmark.
Why Moersen Is Held in Such High Regard
Within the City Football Group, Moersen is considered one of the standout executives of his generation. He is known not just for his technical expertise, but for a calm, structured approach to complex negotiations. Colleagues frequently describe him as meticulous, practical, and flexible in his thinking.
His experience operating across different leagues and football cultures further enhances his reputation. In today’s global transfer market, that adaptability is invaluable, and it is a quality Moersen has consistently demonstrated during his time at CFG.
For Tottenham—who have often faced criticism over recruitment missteps and contractual issues—his skill set could be transformative. Appointing Moersen would signal a deliberate shift toward adopting the proven methods of one of football’s most successful modern organisations.
Pressure Increasing on Thomas Frank
Away from the boardroom, questions are also being asked about Tottenham’s direction on the pitch. Head coach Thomas Frank is facing growing scrutiny after a challenging start to life in North London.
According to GIVEMESPORT senior correspondent Fabrizio Romano, Frank is under mounting pressure after recording only 10 wins from his first 25 matches in charge. While there is no immediate plan to replace him, there is a clear understanding within the club that performances and results must improve.
Despite arriving with a reputation for tactical sharpness and player development, Frank has struggled to achieve consistency. Injuries, squad imbalance, and ongoing structural changes behind the scenes have contributed to instability, but frustration among supporters is increasingly evident.
Romano adds that Frank is fully aware of the stakes and knows the coming months will be crucial. Tottenham are keen to avoid yet another managerial reset, but they are equally aware of the need to maintain forward momentum during this transitional period.
A Defining Moment for Spurs
Tottenham find themselves at a pivotal stage in their evolution. The club boasts world-class facilities, a huge global following, and considerable financial strength, yet sustained success on the pitch has remained elusive.
Targeting Carlos Raphael Moersen as head of football operations highlights a growing acceptance that long-term achievement depends on elite leadership behind the scenes as much as talent on the field. By looking to an executive shaped by Manchester City’s winning culture, Spurs are attempting to build foundations for lasting success rather than short-term solutions.
Whether Moersen ultimately agrees to the move remains uncertain, but the club’s strategic direction is clear. Tottenham are seeking to move away from an era of centralised control and toward a more modern, collaborative football model.
Should the deal go through, Moersen would arrive at a club desperate for stability, coherence, and progress. The task ahead would be demanding—but it would also offer a rare opportunity to leave a lasting legacy at one of English football’s most ambitious institutions.
As talks continue, attention remains firmly fixed on North London, where the next chapter in Tottenham Hotspur’s ongoing transformation appears to be drawing closer.
