In November 2025, Southampton turned to Under-21s boss Tonda Eckert following the sacking of Will Still. Little did they know how significant an appointment that would turn out to be.
Eckert was eventually found at the heart of three incidents involving observing opposition training sessions, but the Saints rallied behind the 33-year-old. The FA have allowed them to carry on with their boss following an investigation; their season really starts now.
After 50 matches in charge of the club, Eckert has won 30, and his team has scored 102 goals in the process. It’s an incredible record, and it should hopefully get even better now.
The German’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season - now the only obstacle in the way of Southampton and a long future with their free-to-manage head coach.
Saints should offer new deal
It’s a given that Eckert will be offered new terms at some point in the near future, after the club backed him strongly following the initial Spygate repercussions.
However, the Saints should look to get this done as soon as possible and remove any doubt, as this could lead to some speculation if they head into the final few months without an agreement.
After the events of Spygate and Dragan Solak’s public backing, the young head coach owes the club a bit of loyalty, even if top-flight clubs come calling. Eckert will know this, and has already acknowledged the support multiple times in the media.
With the form that Southampton have been in since his arrival, the club would be mad not to think they’re in with a shot at the Premier League this season.
A question over length
When assessing their options, Southampton could simply offer their head coach an extension to his deal, or potentially hand out an entirely new contract.
A four-year deal could be their best option - a show of long-term backing for a manager who has worked wonders during his first year in charge.
Regardless of the Spygate saga, it’s clear to see that the Saints have an excellent tactician at their disposal.
In his statement following the FA giving Southampton the all-clear, Chairman Dragan Solak labelled Tonda Eckert as “one of Europe’s most exciting young coaches”.
The Serbian billionaire recognised that without the distractions over whether he’ll be allowed to manage the team, he’s “confident” Eckert will lead the team to a “successful” season.
It’s a well-made point. Now it’s Southampton’s time to kick on and prove they’re better than the second tier of English Football.
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