Roberto De Zerbi has described keeping Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League as the greatest achievement of his managerial career. Spurs secured their top-flight status on the final day of the 2025/26 season with a 1-0 victory over Everton at home.
Joao Palhinha's 43rd-minute goal proved decisive, earning Tottenham their first home league win since December. The result condemned rivals West Ham United to relegation, despite their 3-0 win over Leeds United at the London Stadium. West Ham ended a 14-season Premier League stint with 39 points, the highest total for a relegated team in 15 years.
De Zerbi was appointed with seven games remaining, signing a five-year contract after the brief and disastrous 44-day reign of interim manager Igor Tudor. At that point, Tottenham sat just one point above the relegation zone. The Italian manager was visibly emotional at full-time, reflecting on the pressure of the situation.
“I think this is the biggest achievement in my time [in management],” De Zerbi said. “Europa League in Brighton was great. The second place in Marseille, with a lot of problems, was a big achievement. But I think today was maybe one of the best days in football so far.”
Having avoided a first top-flight relegation since 1977, Tottenham now look to rebuild under De Zerbi after two consecutive 17th-place finishes. The focus shifts to next season, with the aim of challenging for higher league positions.
