Tottenham Hotspur are closing in on the appointment of Roberto De Zerbi as their new head coach, with negotiations reaching an advanced stage according to reports. The Italian manager, who left Marseille in February, had initially planned to wait until the summer to evaluate his options but now appears poised to take on the immediate challenge of keeping Spurs in the Premier League.
Advanced Talks and Contract Offer
Discussions between Tottenham and De Zerbi have progressed significantly, with the Press Association understanding that a five-year contract is on the table. This move would make the 46-year-old the club's fourth head coach in just ten months, highlighting the turbulent period at the North London side.
Shift from Summer Plans to Immediate Role
De Zerbi, formerly of Brighton, had been expected to take a break until the end of the season after departing Marseille. However, following Igor Tudor's departure on Sunday after a disastrous 44-day interim reign that saw five defeats in seven matches, Spurs have redirected their focus. The club's precarious position, with relegation looming for the first time since 1977, has forced them into urgent action.
With fan favourite Mauricio Pochettino committed to leading the United States at this summer's World Cup, De Zerbi has emerged as the most viable candidate available. Pochettino confirmed on Monday that he has not been approached by Tottenham or Real Madrid, stating his full commitment to the national team.
Timeline and Preparation
Tottenham anticipate finalising the appointment by the middle of this week, providing the new coach with ten days to prepare for the crucial Premier League fixture against Sunderland on April 12. First-team coach Bruno Saltor has been overseeing training for players not on international duty in the interim period.
Fan Concerns and Controversy
The expected hiring of De Zerbi is not without controversy. Three Tottenham supporters groups – Proud Lilywhites, Women of the Lane, and Spurs Reach – issued statements on Friday opposing his appointment due to past comments regarding Marseille forward Mason Greenwood.
In November, while managing Marseille, De Zerbi described Greenwood as a "good guy" and expressed sadness about the allegations against him, stating he knew "a totally different person than the one who was described." Greenwood had faced charges in 2022 for attempted rape, controlling behaviour, and assault, which were dropped by the Crown Prosecution Service in 2023 due to witness withdrawals and new evidence. He has since resumed his career at Marseille.
Historical Context and Managerial Search
De Zerbi has been linked with the Tottenham vacancy for several years, initially in 2023 and more persistently over the past month since Thomas Frank's departure on February 11. The club's swift turn to De Zerbi after Tudor's exit underscores the urgency of their situation, with relegation threats mounting amid inconsistent performances.
This appointment represents a significant gamble for Tottenham, who hope De Zerbi's experience and tactical acumen can stabilise the team and secure their Premier League status for the coming season.
