Roberto De Zerbi has confirmed his intention to remain Tottenham Hotspur manager next season, even if the club suffers relegation, as he prepares his side for a defining final match against Everton.
De Zerbi's Commitment
'Yes, I confirm everything,' said De Zerbi when asked about his future plans. 'For me, it's still an honour to be a coach for Tottenham, even if we play for the relegation fight, it's not a problem. I consider football something more than the table, more than the level of the game.'
Since his appointment in late March, De Zerbi has overseen a significant improvement, collecting eight points from six matches after a dismal run of 15 games without a win. However, Tottenham still face a nerve-wracking final day, needing at least a point against Everton at home to secure their Premier League survival.
The Stakes
Defeat could see West Ham United leapfrog them by beating Leeds United at the London Stadium, sending Spurs down for the first time since 1977 and costing an estimated £250 million in lost revenue. 'The secret is to manage the pressure,' De Zerbi explained. 'You have to be clear and honest with yourself. The level of difficulty is high, but we have enough quality and we play in our stadium.'
He added: 'If for us it will be a tough game, it will be a tough game for West Ham too. Leeds will play like they did at our stadium.' Leeds fought back to draw at Tottenham less than two weeks ago, only denied a late winner by a superb Antonin Kinsky save.
Mental Fortitude
'To attack the pressure, you have to find the valour inside,' De Zerbi continued. 'The pressure is nice if you know how to manage it. These players are good people, but are they tough? I think so, but we will see on Sunday if I'm right.'
Spurs slipped into the relegation zone two days before De Zerbi's first game, a defeat to Sunderland, but have recovered form while West Ham suffered three consecutive losses. His strategy has focused on fielding a settled team, relying on experienced players, and restoring confidence after a turbulent season.
Team News
Dominic Solanke is available after missing three matches with a hamstring injury, but Xavi Simons is out for months with cruciate knee ligament damage. Captain Cristian Romero has returned to Argentina for World Cup preparation with the national team, a decision criticised by fans and former players, including Glenn Hoddle who called it 'scandalous'.
De Zerbi acknowledged the different pressures compared to last season's Europa League final triumph. 'It's easier to play a Europa League final than Tottenham versus Everton, 100 per cent. When you are fighting relegation, the players' eyes are different. But if we win, there is another pride, another emotion.'
