Roberto De Zerbi Apologises for Mason Greenwood Remarks in First Spurs Interview
New Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi has publicly apologised for his past comments regarding Marseille forward Mason Greenwood. The Italian boss addressed the controversy in his first interview with the club's in-house media, insisting he would never intentionally downplay the serious issue of violence against women.
Fan Opposition to De Zerbi Appointment
Three prominent Tottenham fan groups - Proud Lilywhites, Women of the Lane and Spurs Reach - had expressed strong opposition to De Zerbi's appointment on Friday. Their concerns stemmed from comments De Zerbi made while managing Marseille about Greenwood, who faced serious criminal charges in 2022 that were later dropped.
The fan groups posted 'No to De Zerbi' statements as speculation intensified about his potential appointment last week. The Tottenham Hotspur Supporters' Trust subsequently stated they had "serious and far-reaching concerns" about the club hiring De Zerbi.
De Zerbi's Apology and Clarification
In his interview, De Zerbi chose to respond in Italian to ensure clarity, stating: "I have never wanted to downplay the issue of violence against women or violence against anyone more broadly."
The new Spurs manager emphasised his personal commitment to vulnerable individuals, saying: "In my life, I have always stood up for those who are more vulnerable, more fragile. I've consistently fought and taken a stand to be on the side of those who are most at risk."
De Zerbi added: "I am sorry if I offended anyone's feeling with this subject matter. I have a daughter and I'm very sensitive to these things, and I always have been. I hope that over time people will get to know me better and will understand that at that moment I didn't mean to take a stance."
Background on Mason Greenwood Case
Mason Greenwood was charged in October 2022 with attempted rape, controlling and coercive behaviour, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. These charges related to allegations concerning a woman after images and videos were posted online.
The Crown Prosecution Service dropped all charges in February 2023, citing "a combination of the withdrawal of key witnesses and new material that came to light." This development meant there was "no realistic prospect of conviction." Greenwood, who denied all charges, has since resumed his football career and joined Marseille in 2024.
De Zerbi's Previous Comments and Club Considerations
In November, while managing Marseille, De Zerbi described Greenwood as a "good guy" who had paid a "heavy price." He added: "It saddens me what happened in his life, because I know a totally different person than the one who was described."
Despite fan opposition, Tottenham proceeded with De Zerbi's appointment after sacking interim head coach Igor Tudor on Sunday. The club finds itself in a precarious 17th position in the Premier League, just one point above the relegation zone after a disastrous campaign.
The Press Association understands that Tottenham carefully considered and discussed De Zerbi's comments about Greenwood during negotiations. The club examined the sentiments surrounding the remarks before making their final decision to appoint the Italian manager.
