The 47-year-old did not attend his usual press conference after the loss, with assistant Bruno Saltor stepping in to face the media. At the time, Saltor described the situation only as a "personal family issue," offering support while keeping details private.

It later emerged that Tudor had received news of his father's passing shortly after full-time, prompting an outpouring of sympathy from both Tottenham and his former club Juventus.

"Everyone at Tottenham Hotspur is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Igor Tudor's father, Mario. Our thoughts and condolences go out to Igor and his family during this incredibly difficult time," the club said in a statement.

Juventus, where Tudor enjoyed a long association as both a player and coach, echoed those sentiments, adding: "Juventus stands with Igor Tudor and his family at this difficult time. Juventus joins in mourning the passing of his father."

Tudor, who was appointed on an interim basis in February, has endured a challenging start to his tenure. Spurs have struggled for form, losing four and drawing one of his five Premier League matches in charge, leaving them just one point above the relegation zone with seven games remaining.

The defeat to Nottingham Forest has intensified concerns over Tottenham's top-flight status, with their next fixture - away to Sunderland - taking on increased significance as the battle for survival enters its final stretch.

Amid the uncertainty on and off the pitch, speculation has already begun over the club's long-term managerial future. Reports suggest that Roberto De Zerbi, formerly of Brighton and most recently Marseille, is open to taking over should Spurs retain their Premier League status, while Mauricio Pochettino has also been linked with a potential return.

In addition to managerial considerations, Tottenham are believed to be close to finalising the appointment of a new sporting director, with Sebastian Kehl among the leading candidates following his departure from Borussia Dortmund.

For now, however, the focus remains on supporting Tudor through a deeply personal loss, even as the club faces a defining period in its season.

Nedbank Cup Round of 32 draw