The Telegraph's Luke Edwards says Roberto de Zerbi's comments that "you can't just build the team with the names like in Football Manager" after his Tottenham side drew against Nottingham Forest on Saturday "ring a little bit hollow".
After a goalless draw at the City Ground left Spurs still searching for a first win of the season, head coach De Zerbi also told Sky Sports Spurs "have to improve in every part of football, organisation with and without the ball".
Spurs spent over £300m on new players over the summer with new additions Sandro Tonali, Jan Paul van Hecke, Savio and Omar Marmoush all starting on Saturday.
"The words ring a little bit hollow from De Zerbi and not for the first time," said Edwards.
"He said it's not like Football Manager and you don't buy players and just expect them to be a team. Well, actually that's your job.
"That is what you're supposed to do - build a team with your recruitment.
"They have spent heavily, he is under early season pressure. They were better against Nottingham Forest and I maintain they will get better and improve but it has been a really poor start to the season.
"If that Neco Williams goal stood it would have been three straight defeats to start the season after all the money they spent this summer.
"De Zerbi is not renowned for his calm under pressure and the pressure is already building. Lets sit back and watch the fireworks."
Spurs fans, we want to know how you're feeling after a difficult start to De Zerbi's first full season in charge? How concerned are you with the lack of creativity? And what do you think about the Italian's comments and touchline demeanour?