Tottenham Hotspur's disappointing start to the 2026/27 campaign continued on Saturday evening as they fell to defeat against Newcastle United.
After nearly suffering relegation last campaign, Tottenham have spent big this summer in the hopes that they could challenge for European football once more. The likes of Matheus Fernandes, Sandro Tonali, Savio and Jan Paul van Hecke have all joined the club for big money.
However, despite their summer splurge, they have opened up the campaign with back-to-back defeats.
They were crushed by Brentford in their opening match of the Premier League season, with the Bees running out comfortable 3-0 winners at the Gtech Community Stadium.
Spurs were then beaten again on Saturday evening as Newcastle ran out 2-0 winners at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Second half goals from Anthony Elanga and Yoane Wissa mean that Spurs currently occupy 20th place in the Premier League table.
The Three Players That Have Asked to Leave Spurs
It could be a busy end to the transfer window for Spurs. It is believed that the north London club could still sign another attacker, with Cody Gakpo linked with a move to the club.
As well as incomings, there could also be some outgoings. De Zerbi revealed after the defeat to Newcastle that three players have asked to leave the club before the transfer window slams shut.
"Richarlison, he's said too many times he wants to leave," the Spurs head coach said, per talkSPORT. "[Kevin] Danso came to me two days ago, and he said he wants to leave.
"The other player, [Pape Matar] Sarr, is the same but he's suffered a small injury. But, he's almost ready to train."
All three players were not included in Spurs' matchday squad for their defeat to Newcastle. He added: "I love these players, and they are great guys. I have very good relationships.
"But, if they want to leave, they have to bring the economic solution to the club and they can go, and we'll find other players."
Roberto De Zerbi Says Newcastle Result Was 'Unfair'
De Zerbi has claimed that his side deserved better against Newcastle. He told the BBC: "We can improve in the defensive phases but today was an unfair result. Disappointed for the result because, until the first goal we conceded, we played better than Newcastle.
"We are disappointed for the result and [for] our fans. We are working to be a great team. When we become a team, we can change the story of the last two seasons for Tottenham.
He added: "Forget the result. I am not angry, we are working well and were unlucky today with the result.
"There is no panic. I know where we are going and what the plan is. I'm sorry for the fans for the result. We have to improve. We have to work hard on the pitch and find the connection between the players."
Tottenham return to action on Saturday, September 5, when they travel to the City Ground to take on Nottingham Forest.