Roberto de Zerbi has certainly brought that winning feeling back to Tottenham.
Tottenham made the right decision by appointing Roberto de Zerbi midway through the season last month. It proved to be the right move at the right time for the Lilywhites, who at one stage looked destined for relegation under both Igor Tudor and Thomas Frank. It is fair to say that the North Londoners have rediscovered their rhythm, with players showing far greater confidence in recent matches compared to performances prior to the Italian tactician’s arrival at N17.
One of the first things De Zerbi has done well since arriving at Hotspur Way is engaging in more one-on-one conversations with players who have struggled for form this season. He has instilled a renewed sense of belief within the squad, encouraging individuals to perform to the best of their abilities in crucial must-win matches. In contrast to Thomas Frank’s approach, De Zerbi has demonstrated strong man-management skills, something reflected in the way the players have responded on the pitch in recent weeks.
Each player now has a clearly defined role, and the team is playing aggressive, front-footed, attacking football. The squad has embraced De Zerbi’s methods, and it appears that the Italian tactician is determined to help the Lilywhites finish the season on a high. The impressive performance against Aston Villa further underlined that Spurs are heading in the right direction under the 46-year-old, and there is now genuine optimism for the North Londoners.
Tottenham have struck gold with Roberto de Zerbi
Not many fans expected Roberto de Zerbi to make such an immediate impact after taking over the reins at N17 from Igor Tudor. However, credit must be given where it is due, as the Italian has done an excellent job in helping the Lilywhites move out of the drop zone for now, at the expense of arch rivals West Ham United. There is a growing sense of belonging for the 46-year-old at the North London club, and it seems that supporters are gradually beginning to believe he is the right man to lead the club forward in the coming years.
This belief is also shared by the players, who appear to be enjoying their football under the former Brighton manager at N17. Conor Gallagher has revealed how Roberto de Zerbi has played a key role in restoring harmony within the squad. Speaking in an interview with Football London, Gallagher said,
“The gaffer has been brilliant with us. He’s brought the team together. He’s really worked on players individually with one-to-one meetings and one-to-one chats, trying to get that belief and confidence back in the players. He’s done that with me and it’s made a big difference. I know he’s done that with a lot of the other lads. As a team as well, all the work he’s done on the training pitch and the meeting rooms, it’s been fantastic and everyone is on the same page.”
As Conor Gallagher rightly points out, there is a noticeable difference in how the players have responded to Roberto de Zerbi’s demands. The squad has backed the new manager from day one, largely due to his ability to manage individuals effectively and help them rediscover their form in recent matches. De Zerbi has worked hard to instil confidence at N17, and the results suggest that the 46-year-old has succeeded in getting the best out of his players at a crucial stage of the campaign.
The training methods appear intense, and Roberto de Zerbi has even made an effort to get involved with the players during certain drills, building camaraderie within the squad. Fans may also have noticed his passion for the role, and many now believe that the Lilywhites can avoid relegation if the Italian continues to guide the team in the right direction, starting with the upcoming clash against Leeds United at home next week.