The Tottenham head coach has backed the 21yo to keep improving, insisting the young forward has the talent to become a key player for Spurs.
Tottenham Hotspur head coach Roberto De Zerbi has publicly reaffirmed his commitment to developing Mathys Tel, describing the 21-year-old French attacker as an “important player” with massive potential as Spurs prepare for the 2026/27 season.
In comments shared by fan outlet Spurs Insight on X, the Italian tactician praised the forward’s progress while emphasizing the coaching staff’s duty to refine his skill set on a daily basis.
Tel’s journey in North London has been marked by flashpoints of quality alongside the natural growing pains associated with a young player adapting to English football. Having logged valuable minutes across domestic action and the pre-season tour of Australia and New Zealand, De Zerbi highlighted that the added year of Premier League exposure is already benefiting the young forward’s overall game.
Discussing Tel’s trajectory and raw capabilities, De Zerbi stated:
“One season more experience, he has big, big talent, an important player. We have the responsibility to help him improve every day.”
De Zerbi’s words reflect his hands-on management style, prioritizing individual player development and supportive leadership over short-term critique. Rather than placing undue pressure on young talent, the Spurs manager views guiding Tel’s technical and tactical maturation as a direct responsibility of the coaching staff.
Tel’s versatility across the forward line makes him a valuable component in De Zerbi’s attacking blueprint. Capable of operating on the left wing, cutting inward onto his right foot, or playing centrally as a dynamic forward, the former Bayern Munich prospect offers athletic pressing and explosive ball-carrying traits.
During summer preparations, Tel accumulated steady minutes in De Zerbi’s fluid system. His physical sharpness and willingness to drive into opposition boxes align directly with the manager’s desire for continuous attacking movement and high turnover creation.
A Big Campaign Ahead for the French Prospect
With Tottenham gearing up for a high-stakes campaign, Tel is positioned to serve as a key rotation element alongside senior figures like Dominic Solanke and Richarlison. By maintaining his commitment to Tel’s long-term growth, De Zerbi ensures that Spurs possess dynamic depth in wide and central areas as they aim to establish a dominant, possession-oriented identity. If Tel continues to channel his raw talent into tactical consistency under De Zerbi’s tutelage, the upcoming season could prove to be a definitive breakthrough chapter in his Tottenham career.