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Tottenham Hires John Heitinga as Assistant Coach, Appoints Rafi as Director of Football Operations

The hires aim to steady a 14th-place side under scrutiny for poor results.

Overview

  • Tottenham confirmed Thursday that former Ajax and Everton defender John Heitinga has joined Thomas Frank’s staff as an assistant coach.
  • Frank said Heitinga will be a “great addition” with primary responsibilities on defensive work during training.
  • Heitinga previously served as an assistant at Liverpool and West Ham United, helping Liverpool win the Premier League last season under Arne Slot.
  • Heitinga’s most recent managerial role at Ajax began in May 2025 and ended in November after a difficult run of results.
  • Tottenham also named Carlos Raphael Moersen, known as Rafi, as director of football operations, bringing him from City Football Group to lead administration, player care, and training ground operations.