Roberto De Zerbi: I feel very good right now, and the team is moving in the right direction.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi expressed his confidence and anticipation for the upcoming season, citing positive progress in squad building. He hopes to create a competitive, spirited, and cohesive team that will demonstrate even greater strength in the new season.  

In his first official interview for the 2026/27 season, Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi shared the team's summer transfer progress, preseason preparations, and future plans. Since taking over the team last season, he led Tottenham to safety with seven games remaining in the league.  

Roberto De Zerbi is currently at the club's training ground for his first full preseason training period since taking charge of Tottenham, while the team continues to strengthen its squad in the transfer market.  

Tottenham Hotspur have now completed the signing of six new players. These new signings not only possess strong individual abilities but also have extensive Premier League experience, leading Roberto De Zerbi to approve of the team's summer transfer activity.  

Roberto De Zerbi said: "I feel very positive right now because the team is moving in the right direction. We are gradually building a strong team and bringing in some very key players. This also means that the club is entering a new phase of development."  

“Before joining the club in April, I spent a lot of time learning about Tottenham, including the club's philosophy and the management's plans. Before the match against Everton, we had already clarified our future direction. Now, we have officially entered this long-term building phase and are confident in building a strong team. Of course, there is still some work to be done because the transfer window is not yet closed, and both new signings and player departures are still underway. At the moment, I am very happy and proud, and I remain positive about the future.”  

Roberto De Zerbi stated that Tottenham's future development goals are not only to improve their competitive strength, but more importantly, to cultivate a unique team spirit. He said, "We want to build our own soul, to create a team that is capable, passionate, and shares common values. Modern football is not just about ball possession, tactics, and performance during matches; it's more about the attitude players demonstrate on a daily basis. Are they willing to invest time and effort? Do they truly enjoy being a Tottenham player and be proud of it?"  

When Roberto De Zerbi took over Tottenham last year, the team was facing immense pressure to avoid relegation, but he remained steadfast in his belief in the club's future direction. During his final seven league games in charge, he led the team to 11 points, ultimately securing their place in the Premier League. At that time, the manager didn't rush into drastic tactical changes, but instead prioritized restoring the team's confidence, strengthening internal cohesion, and boosting their fighting spirit during matches.  

With preseason training fully underway, Roberto De Zerbi is focusing on further improving the team's overall performance, hoping to help Tottenham challenge for a higher ranking in the new season. He stated, "Last season, we achieved our goals by relying on unwavering belief, strong will, and the right team spirit."  

“Now, we need to continue to improve in terms of the team’s playing style, overall performance, and tactical execution. The situation was completely different in the last seven games of last season. At that time, we did not have enough time to instill more tactical concepts. Now, we have a full preparation period and a good training environment and conditions, which can gradually improve the team’s level.”  

“I believe Tottenham has the ability to compete for a higher position in the Premier League. Of course, I know very well how competitive the Premier League is, but as long as the players maintain the right motivation and the team maintains good organization and discipline on and off the pitch, we have a chance to achieve our goals.”

"Managing Tottenham has given me a tremendous sense of responsibility. When I first arrived, the fans gave me a lot of encouragement and support, and it is an honor to be the head coach of this club. But at the same time, I also bear the mission of leading the team to success, hoping to make the fans in the stands proud of the team, and for each of us to be proud to be a member of Tottenham, and to build a great team together."  

Image source: Internet/Tottenham Hotspur