Liverpool's De Zerbi Warning Spurs Tottenham as Manager Hunt Heats Up
Roberto De Zerbi has emerged as one of the more intriguing candidates to become Tottenham Hotspur's next manager following the dismissal of Thomas Frank. The Italian is currently available after his exit from Marseille and brings proven Premier League experience from his time at Brighton. However, Spurs may have significant reservations about appointing him, stemming from the very reasons that reportedly deterred Liverpool from pursuing him in the past.
De Zerbi's Availability and Premier League Pedigree
De Zerbi's departure from Marseille was announced within the same twenty-four-hour period that saw Thomas Frank shown the door by Tottenham. The prospect of securing the Italian on a free transfer is undoubtedly attractive for Spurs, given his impressive track record at clubs like Brighton, Marseille, and Sassuolo. His tenure at Brighton was particularly notable, guiding the Seagulls to their best-ever Premier League finish of sixth place in the 2022/23 season and an FA Cup semi-final appearance.
During that successful campaign, Alexis Mac Allister was the top scorer with twelve goals. However, Brighton's form dipped in the following season as they contended with European competition for the first time, leading to high-profile departures including Mac Allister and Moises Caicedo, who joined Chelsea in a then British-record £115 million move.
Liverpool's Reported Interest and Lawrenson's Warning
Liverpool were reportedly interested in De Zerbi towards the end of the 2023/24 campaign as Jurgen Klopp prepared to step down. While Xabi Alonso was also touted as a potential successor, the role eventually went to Arne Slot. Reds legend Mark Lawrenson welcomed this outcome, having previously cautioned his former club against appointing De Zerbi.
Lawrenson expressed concerns that De Zerbi had overstepped by publicly pushing Brighton to strengthen their squad, behaviour he deemed inappropriate for a manager aspiring to lead a club of Liverpool's stature. "I thought Roberto De Zerbi was a bit naughty last week, saying he wants more players. Brighton gave him his big gig, and he's done very, very well," Lawrenson told Paddy Power at the time.
He added, "But once you go down that route of asking for more players, and maybe his agent is speaking to other clubs, I don't think Liverpool will go anywhere near him. He's a good manager, but I think he is getting carried away." Lawrenson also suggested that De Zerbi's public grievances about squad depth at Brighton, following their dip in form, showed a touch of arrogance that could deter prospective employers.
De Zerbi's Controversial Approach at Marseille
De Zerbi's tendency for public criticism did not cease after leaving Brighton. At Marseille, he repeatedly questioned the club's transfer strategy openly and clashed with some players due to his demanding methods. This pattern of behaviour raises questions about whether his management style aligns with Tottenham's current needs.
Spurs are currently languishing just five points above the relegation zone and are in desperate need of stability. Lawrenson's earlier comments imply that De Zerbi might not be the ideal candidate to provide that steadiness, given the chaotic undertones associated with his recent roles.
Implications for Tottenham's Managerial Search
While De Zerbi's availability and Premier League credentials make him a tantalising option, the warnings from Liverpool's past interest serve as a significant cautionary tale for Tottenham. The club must weigh his tactical acumen against the potential for public disputes and internal discord.
As Tottenham navigate their search for a new manager, the lessons from Liverpool's hesitation highlight the importance of not only a manager's track record but also their approach to club management and public relations. The decision could prove pivotal in determining whether Spurs can climb away from the drop zone and restore stability to their campaign.
