Mateus Fernandes has revealed that Roberto De Zerbi was the key reason he joined Tottenham Hotspur for a club-record £85 million fee from West Ham, choosing Spurs over Manchester United in a high-profile transfer battle.
Fernandes credits De Zerbi's influence
The 21-year-old Portuguese midfielder became Tottenham's fifth signing of the summer, with De Zerbi playing a pivotal role in convincing him to join despite the club's recent struggles. Spurs have finished 17th in the Premier League for two consecutive seasons, but De Zerbi's vision for the team proved decisive.
Speaking after his arrival was officially announced, Fernandes said: "I'm very excited for this next step. Spurs is a massive club, and the head coach was a key part of why I have decided to join. When we spoke, it was very special. We look at football in the same way - going onto the pitch as a strong team, with fight and energy, to try and win every game. I can't wait to get started, to meet the fans, to meet everyone, and give everything for the club."
Spurs' aggressive summer spending
Tottenham have been aggressive in the summer transfer window, with Fernandes becoming the fifth addition. The club is also set to complete a deal worth up to £100 million for Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali, another player convinced by De Zerbi's project. Both Manchester United and Tottenham had made Fernandes a priority target, but the midfielder opted for north London.
De Zerbi praises Fernandes' qualities
De Zerbi also commented on the signing, highlighting Fernandes' Premier League experience and ability to perform under pressure. "I've admired Mateus for a long time because he combines quality on the ball with the intensity and intelligence that are so important in the way we want to play," De Zerbi said. "Despite his age, he already has good experience in the Premier League and has shown quality and consistency at this level. Mateus is comfortable under pressure, can progress the ball, works hard for the team and has the courage to make things happen in difficult moments. I believe this is the ideal environment for him to continue his development, and I'm excited to start working with him."
Fernandes is the latest player to credit De Zerbi's influence as pivotal to joining Spurs, following a pattern in the club's recruitment strategy this summer.
