On 26 March 2023, following exits from the Champions League and the FA Cup and his outburst in the post-match press conference after Tottenham Hotspur's 3–3 draw with Southampton, Conte left the club by mutual consent. Stellini, originally deputy to Conte, was appointed by Daniel Levy as acting head coach until the end of the season, with Ryan Mason serving as his assistant. In his first game as acting head coach, on 3 April, his side drew 1–1 with Everton, conceding a late goal. On 15 April, Tottenham lost 3–2 against Bournemouth, conceding a late goal once more. On 23 April, Tottenham suffered a 6–1 loss against Newcastle, going 5–0 down inside 21 minutes, which undermined their effort to finish in the top four, in order to compete in the next season's Champions League. He was relieved of his duties the following day, being replaced by Ryan Mason as caretaker manager.
