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An Arsenal legend has offered a surprising take on Tottenham Hotspur’s relegation fears, going against what many would expect from a fierce rival.

The precarious situation Tottenham Hotspur find themselves in this season is there for all to see, including rival fans.

The Lilywhites have struggled for form this year, having not won a single domestic match – a run that has left them hanging rather close to the bottom three.

Failure to get a victory next weekend against Sunderland, away from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, combined with a West Ham win against Wolverhampton Wanderers, will see Spurs drop below those dreaded lines, taking the relegation fight out of their own hands.

Tottenham relegation fear addressed by Jens Lehmann with derby reasoning

Of course, naturally, the expectation is that Tottenham’s local rivals will be excited by the prospect of the Lilywhites being relegated.

However, former Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann, who was never on the losing end of a north London derby, does not want Tottenham to go down.

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Speaking on the Clutch9 Podcast, Lehmann explained that he wants Spurs to stay up and outlined his reasoning, drawing on an example from Germany.

He pointed to Schalke’s relegation from the Bundesliga and how Borussia Dortmund fans initially welcomed it, before admitting they missed the Revierderby, as he said:

“I would be happy for them to stay up.

“For example, as I told you before, there was a situation in Germany where Schalke got relegated two years before and the Dortmund fans are happy about it. But when you ask the fans, they say, ‘Wow, we’re missing the derbies.’ And so you do not really want Tottenham to go down.

“Because, you know, I love to see these derbies Tottenham against Arsenal.”

Spurs relegation would impact Premier League beyond rivalry

Of course, given the record the Gunners have in north London derbies of late, it is no surprise to hear Lehmann say he wants those games to stay.

But not just from a rivalry perspective, losing Tottenham as a whole could be rather damaging to the Premier League, given the club’s prestige and history.

Spurs used to be a constant presence in the Champions League and were even fighting for the title a few years back. They also have some of the best facilities in the country at the moment, which are regularly used by England.

Seeing all of that in the Championship would feel rather off, but that is the price they may have to pay for their lacklustre showing in the last couple of seasons.

Tottenham Hotspur now run the risk of losing out on one of their long-term target Maghnes Akliouche, who is now on the radar of an English giant.

Tottenham Hotspur are long-term admirers of Maghnes Akliouche, with interest going as far back as last summer, when he emerged as an option for the number ten role following a series of failed moves by Tottenham, before they eventually signed Xavi Simons.

In the winter window, Spurs once again reignited their interest in Akliouche, who was reported to be available for £50 million, but again, no deal materialised.

It has since been revealed that AS Monaco did not allow for Akliouche to move in the winter because they wanted to keep hold of him for their Champions League run. But Spurs could now miss out on the 23-year-old this summer.

Liverpool joins race for Tottenham target Maghnes Akliouche

According to Fichajes, the Monaco man is now understood to be attracting attention from Premier League giants Liverpool.

It is explained that the Reds see Akliouche as a long-term replacement for Mohammed Salah, who has confirmed his departure from Liverpool this season.

Akliouche has registered 15 goal contributions this campaign and could cost around £60 million – £10 million more than it would have taken to lure him away from Ligue 1 in the winter.

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Liverpool, however, will still look to negotiate a reasonable price for the 23-year-old.

Spurs need attacking depth as Maghnes Akliouche’s race heats up

This will no doubt serve as a big blow for Tottenham, who are also in need of a wide forward given the lack of depth in that area of the pitch.

Mohammed Kudus, as it stands, represents the only right-wing option available to Roberto De Zerbi, which is far from ideal for the new boss.

Kudus has been sidelined for 97 days after picking up an injury this season, and if there is no one to provide cover again next campaign, the wide man could well be run into the ground.

Akliouche represents an option for Tottenham, and it remains to be seen if they will join the race for the Frenchman once again.

Tony Pulis has revealed what Roberto De Zerbi’s priority at Tottenham Hotspur should be if he wants to keep the club in the Premier League.

Some pundits believe that getting De Zerbi has been a coup for Tottenham, given that the club are in a relegation fight.

However, others are not convinced that the Italian is the right man to get Spurs out of trouble, even though he has proven his coaching credentials at the highest level.

Only time will tell if this proves to be an inspired appointment or another mistake by the Spurs hierarchy, and another experienced manager has now shot a warning to the new Tottenham boss.

Tony Pulis tells Roberto De Zerbi he needs leaders on the pitch at Tottenham

Pulis is no stranger to the demands of a relegation battle and knows what teams need to come out of them unscathed.

He has opined that while it is important for the new Tottenham boss to implement his style of football, it is even more crucial that the club’s leaders on the pitch step up at this time of crisis.

Pulis told BBC Sport: “Roberto de Zerbi has seven games left to turn things around and stave off relegation. He will not tolerate interference and will not stand for players who won’t do what he wants them to. If they fall short, they will be out.

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“De Zerbi’s identity as a coach is about free-flowing and forward-passing football, which fits Tottenham too – it is what their fans want – but without having strong characters and a bit of well-directed leadership on the pitch, that will not count when the going gets tough.

“Wherever I managed, having that kind of character in my team was always hugely important to me. I felt a sound base like that within the team gave even limited players a chance of being successful by getting results over the course of a long and demanding season.”

Pulis tells De Zerbi to leave no stone unturned in discovering leaders at Spurs

A lack of leadership on the pitch has arguably been one of Tottenham’s biggest shortcomings this season, with many of the big names failing to step up and lead by example.

Pulis believes that De Zerbi’s challenge is to collect all the relevant information on his players over the coming days to determine which of them can be his generals on the pitch.

The former Stoke City boss added: “To find out the character of these players, I would go through numerous routes to make sure the lad I was going to sign indeed had the right credentials.

“Watching them in away games was a must, for example. So was speaking to their former coaches or managers – and players who had played with them.

“Off the field, I’d try to put a picture together too. Did they go out a lot? Were they married? The whole process would be as thorough as I could make it. I should add that it did not always go to plan!

“Spurs cannot sign anyone now to change things, so instead their players have to step up and show they have the ability to scrap it out and remain a Premier League side. If they are not up for the fight, they are going down.”

Victor Wanyama has now offered a clear verdict on Roberto De Zerbi, backing the Italian to steady the Tottenham ship – but not without a necessary shift in approach as Spurs fight to avoid disaster.

Roberto De Zerbi’s first training session at Tottenham Hotspur has left a positive impression on Spurs players, who were delighted with the Italian’s methods.

That is, of course, a good sign for Tottenham, who will need confidence heading into the final seven games of the Premier League season, with relegation still very much a reality.

De Zerbi has a clear focus on helping Tottenham avoid the drop with seven games remaining, and he has acknowledged that such a challenge may limit his ability to fully implement his principles from the outset.

Victor Wanyama backs Tottenham boss Roberto De Zerbi to deliver survival and success

Former Tottenham favourite Victor Wanyama has now become the latest to back Roberto De Zerbi to not only save Spurs from relegation, but turn them into a competitive force once again.

Jay Bothroyd also believes that De Zerbi will deliver European football at Spurs next season, turning them into a force to be reckoned with again.

Tottenham, however, will take to the pitch for the first time under their new manager on April 12, a game in which they will be eyeing victory.

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Speaking about De Zerbi’s track record and the impact he can have, Wanyama explained why he believes the Italian is the right fit, as quoted in the Daily Mail: “I have studied him closely. Everywhere he has gone he has improved teams.

“I have long admired De Zerbi since I noticed what he was doing with Sassuolo. Look at Shakhtar, Brighton and Marseille. He changes sides, he moulds them so they are not just survivors, they are competitors.

“I firmly believe he is the right man for Tottenham. He can keep them up, 100 per cent.

“He may need to compromise principles at first, but he is very experienced, he knows what is missing and what is necessary.”

Tottenham injuries and returning stars could shape Spurs revival

Wanyama also opened up on Tottenham’s precarious injury situation, one they have endured for most of the season.

The midfielder acknowledged that those injuries have played a role in the club’s struggles before naming the players he expects to turn things around.

Discussing the impact of injuries and the importance of key players returning, Wanyama said, “It has been difficult for the coaches at Tottenham this season because of the amount of injuries they have had. They have had 10 to 15 players out at different times and that certainly did not help.

“The club has tried different approaches but it is tough when you do not have the full squad together.

“If they can get Kudus, Maddison and Bentancur back they can play a big part in turning it around. Also getting Solanke back into a rhythm. It will make them much more solid as a unit when they have that threat.”

The former Tottenham man, who was present at the club’s clash against Liverpool late last year, is also aiming for a return later this month when Spurs take on Brighton.

Speaking about his connection to the club and a possible return to support them, Wanyama added: “I still keep in touch with some of the medical staff at Spurs and people who work in the offices. Hopefully, I will be over for the Brighton game to support them.”

Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, who worked under Roberto De Zerbi, has offered a revealing insight into what Tottenham can expect, with his verdict only adding to the growing intrigue around the Italian’s arrival.

While not many took to the appointment of Roberto De Zerbi as Tottenham Hotspur manager, glowing reviews have now begun to come in for the new Spurs boss.

Jay Bothroyd is one of the few to have praised the appointment of De Zerbi, with the former Premier League striker going as far as to state that he expects the former Brighton manager to secure European football next season.

Neal Maupay also handed praise to De Zerbi, stating that he is a fantastic appointment for Tottenham, although he had his reservations as to how he will fare in a relegation scrap.

Tottenham midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg praises Roberto De Zerbi impact

A previous comment from Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg is now likely to resonate with Spurs supporters.

Hojbjerg was a regular presence in Roberto De Zerbi’s midfield during the Italian’s spell at Olympique de Marseille, and when speaking to Onze Mondial in November 2025, the Denmark international was full of praise for his then manager – comments that are sure to fuel excitement among the Tottenham faithful.

Speaking about De Zerbi’s influence and his connection with players, Hojbjerg said: “I have been lucky enough to have coaches like [Pep] Guardiola, Jose Mourinho, and Antonio Conte. And I put Roberto De Zerbi in the same category.

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“Over the next 20 years, coach De Zerbi is going to contribute enormously to football. And for me, it is an honour to work with him. The coach… I do not know how to explain it. He has a connection with the dressing room, he has an emotional relationship with the dressing room, Mourinho had the same thing.

“Roberto De Zerbi has a feel for the dressing room, he understands the atmosphere, he grasps the behaviours, he knows in advance what is going to happen the next day… (he pauses). Okay, I will stop there, otherwise I will end up saying too many wonderful things (smiles). It is an honour to work with such a coach, in any case.”

Spurs boss Roberto De Zerbi earns Pep Guardiola praise

Hojbjerg is not alone in his assessment of De Zerbi. Pep Guardiola also had glowing reviews of the new Spurs boss when he was manager of Brighton.

When speaking about the Italian in 2023, Guardiola highlighted the 46-year-old’s tactical influence and the distinct style of play his teams have become known for.

He said: “I am convinced that Roberto De Zerbi is one of the most influential managers in the last 20 years. There is no team that plays the way they play, it is unique.

“I had the feeling that when he arrived I had an idea the impact he would have on the Premier League would be great, but I could not expect him to do it in such a short time.

“They create on average 20-25 chances per game. They monopolise the ball in a way that has not been seen for a long time. Everybody is involved – the goalkeeper is like a holding midfielder.”

Roberto De Zerbi’s former goalkeeper coach has now revealed exactly what the Italian demands from his goalkeepers, and it could spell trouble for Guglielmo Vicario at Tottenham.

Tottenham Hotspur’s new head coach, Roberto De Zerbi, has already taken charge of his first training session as Spurs boss ahead of their clash with Sunderland next weekend.

De Zerbi is well aware that he has just seven games to turn the fortunes of Tottenham around as they battle against relegation this season.

As it stands, a single point is the difference between the Lilywhites and their London rivals, West Ham United.

De Zerbi, in his first interview with the club’s media, already made it clear that he will not have enough time to pass on all his principles to the players, but he did acknowledge his love for an attacking brand of football.

Tottenham goalkeepers: Jack Stern reveals Roberto De Zerbi expectations

The Italian’s comments about how much he loves football were very similar to Neal Maupay, who told Spurs fans what they can expect from their new manager.

Now Jack Stern, who worked as a goalkeeping coach under De Zerbi in the past, has provided more insight on the new Spurs boss, this time focusing on the goalkeeping department.

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Speaking about what De Zerbi demands from his goalkeepers, particularly their role in build-up play and tactical understanding, Stern told Sky Sports:

“He wants all of the things that any coach wants from a goalkeeper in terms of keeping the ball out the net and doing all those normal goalkeeper things.

“And then on top of that he wants the goalkeeper to be so involved in the build up to understand… I think the biggest thing is understanding tactically how the team plays I think the goalkeeper is very responsible for that.

“So there is a lot of focus on that in training, he works hard with the goalkeepers, he is very involved in terms of what the goalkeepers do in training. And again you see the level that the goalkeepers get to when they work with him, it is a new level.

“I do not think he will be able to fully implement all of his ideas straight away but I think the big thing he will have – the big effect he will have on his players is his belief, whether it is totally in the way he wants to play or not, but his belief in we can get results, we can play like this, we can have success together.

“He is so infectious with that belief that it is going to rub off on the staff there, the players there, the goalkeepers and I think that can… he is a special person and he can go in and have an effect that not many people could do in seven games.”

Spurs goalkeeping dilemma: Guglielmo Vicario vs Antonin Kinsky

Jack Stern’s comments only leave questions about who will be the number one at Tottenham, given the contrasting abilities of Guglielmo Vicario and Antonin Kinsky.

Kinsky is definitely the better option when it comes to playing out from the back with his feet, which is a fundamental basic in De Zerbi’s tactics, where he often baits teams to press only to play through them.

Vicario, on the other hand, could be one of the biggest losers from the appointment of De Zerbi, given his inability to play out from the back.

The Italian is guilty of often hoofing balls long and at times out of play when receiving possession this season. Such a style will be far from ideal in De Zerbi’s system, and that could see him lose his spot as number one.

We have taken a look at five Tottenham Hotspur players who could play a pivotal role in Roberto De Zerbi’s first game against Sunderland AFC.

Roberto De Zerbi has already begun settling into life in north London following his appointment earlier this week.

The new Spurs boss has since sat down with the club for his first interview, addressing several issues and outlining what is to come under his reign.

His first game, however, does not come until April 12, when Tottenham face Sunderland in the Premier League after almost a month without action due to the international break, along with no FA Cup or Champions League commitments.

With that fixture in mind, we have now taken a look at five players who could play a pivotal role in earning De Zerbi his first win at Tottenham.

Antonin Kinsky has a chance to take the Tottenham number one spot

Based on his setup at previous clubs, it is clear that De Zerbi prefers players who are comfortable on the ball.

In his first interview with Tottenham, the former Brighton manager stated that he attacks with 11 and defends with 11, highlighting just how vital every player on the pitch is.

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However, the big question then becomes Antonin Kinsky or Guglielmo Vicario? Based on their displays, the general perception is that Vicario struggles with his feet, with even the official Premier League page controversially poking fun at the Spurs number one.

Kinsky, on the other hand, is generally viewed as much better with the ball at his feet, although his howlers at Atletico Madrid have dented that particular reputation.

Kinsky will feature next weekend, given Vicario’s injury, handing him a unique chance at redemption. His ball-playing ability could be crucial if Spurs are to get off to a winning start under their new boss.

Cristian Romero’s form on Argentina duty must continue

Cristian Romero, the Tottenham captain for now, could also play a big role if Spurs are to secure all three points at the Stadium of Light.

It may sound strange given that Romero was visibly not giving his all when Nottingham Forest added a second last time out, where he was seen jogging back rather sluggishly.

But Romero has since taken responsibility and stated he will give everything in the final seven games.

He should fit naturally into De Zerbi’s system due to his ball-playing ability and desire to improve Spurs’ situation.

De Zerbi is also likely to get a confident Romero following his impressive displays with Argentina during the international break, and if he carries that form to north London, Spurs could be looking at a first win under their Italian boss.

In-form Archie Gray will be crucial for De Zerbi

Seeing Archie Gray included on our list of players who could be vital for De Zerbi against Sunderland will not surprise many Spurs fans, given his impressive displays this season.

There is a strong argument that the youngster has been the standout player under the two managers who have taken charge of Tottenham this season.

Under Igor Tudor, Gray looked confident, unafraid to get on the ball in midfield and dictate play – performing like a product of la maisa.

He also carried that form into England U21 duty, grabbing a goal for his country. If he continues playing at that level, he will be crucial for De Zerbi when Spurs travel to Sunderland.

Mohammed Kudus races against time for De Zerbi’s first game

Another player who could be crucial next weekend is Mohammed Kudus. Spurs have clearly lacked a real threat on the right since his injury.

Igor Tudor revealed that the Ghanaian was set for a return around the end of the international break.

Still, Kudus was not seen in De Zerbi’s first training session, although that does not rule him out of the Sunderland clash.

De Zerbi is known to be a big fan, having tried to sign him while at Brighton. The two could now work together in the coming days, and if it clicks, Kudus could make a real difference – though Spurs will be hoping he is ready in time.

Richarlison’s role under Roberto De Zerbi at Tottenham

While De Zerbi may find selection straightforward in other areas, choosing a centre-forward could prove more difficult.

As it stands, Richarlison, Dominic Solanke and Kolo Muani are all fit, giving the Spurs boss a variety of options. There is, however, a feeling that Richarlison could be his preferred choice against Sunderland.

The Brazil international has shown he is ready for the fight in this relegation scrap and has also proven his ability in front of goal, netting ten times this season.

He looks suited to De Zerbi’s style, and if selected, it would not be a surprise to see him find the net in such an attacking system.

Tottenham’s January recruits – Mason Melia and James Wilson – made an immediate impact on Saturday, both getting on the scoresheet in a win for the U21s.

Tottenham supporters are still left wondering why the club did not strengthen more aggressively in the January transfer window.

Despite a growing injury list and several players underperforming, Spurs added only Conor Gallagher and Brazilian left-back Souza to the first team, with neither making a major impact so far.

There were even moments when former manager Igor Tudor was forced to name benches filled almost entirely with academy players. To his credit, the Croatian did give several of those youngsters minutes, even in important matches.

The academy itself, which won Premier League 2 in the 2023/24 season, has seen a dip after many key players moved out on loan.

However, there is still plenty of talent coming through, with names such as Callum Olusesi, James Rowswell and Luca Williams-Barnett continuing to impress.

Mason Melia and James Wilson score for Tottenham academy

Alongside the first-team arrivals, Tottenham also brought in two young attackers during the January window in Mason Melia and James Wilson.

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Melia had actually been signed earlier but officially joined this year due to registration rules, while Wilson arrived on loan from Hearts on deadline day, with an option to make the move permanent.

Both players were involved in the academy clash against West Ham United Under-21s. Wilson was named in the starting lineup, while debutant Melia began the match on the bench.

It did not take long for Wilson to make his mark, with the Scottish youngster opening the scoring in the 20th minute after capitalising on a loose pass.

West Ham responded with two goals before the break, but Melia levelled things just 3 minutes after he came off the bench for the first time in a Spurs shirt with some sharp positioning inside the box.

Tottenham eventually secured a 3-2 victory after Reiss Russell-Denny forced a late own goal. Watch both the goals below.

Spurs academy set to play key role in Roberto De Zerbi rebuild

Tottenham’s academy has faced criticism in recent years for not producing enough first-team-ready players, with Harry Kane often seen as the exception rather than the norm. However, that narrative could begin to change.

Several players currently out on loan, including Will Lankshear, George Abbott, Jamie Donley, Alfie Dorrington, Yusuf Akhamrich and Dane Scarlett, along with arguably the most exciting of them all, Mikey Moore, are expected to be considered for first-team involvement next season.

Roberto De Zerbi’s arrival could be key to that shift. The Italian is known for demanding high standards from all of his players, regardless of age or status.

That approach could open the door for young players to break through, while also giving them confidence that strong performances will be rewarded.

Tottenham fan favourite Sandro has revealed whether he could return to the club as a coach after Roberto De Zerbi joined as the new head coach.

The former Spurs midfielder was made club captain by De Zerbi at Benevento, and the pair have a very good relationship.

In fact, Sandro has admitted that he always wanted to see the Italian coach take the Spurs job, suggesting that his former boss is an ideal fit for the Lilywhites.

The Brazilian is very confident that the Tottenham players will love working with De Zerbi, talking glowingly about how the 46-year-old plans his training sessions.

Sandro reveals if he could be part of Roberto De Zerbi’s coaching staff at Tottenham

Some have speculated whether De Zerbi could bring the 37-year-old to Tottenham as part of his team, given the midfielder’s understanding of the club and his connection with the fan base.

Sandro has refused to rule out a return to his former club and has teased the supporters about the possibility.

When asked on Last Word On Spurs if he could return to Hotspur Way, the Brazil international said he “doesn’t know yet” and added: “I think you guys will find out in the future.”

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When asked about his relationship with Spurs fans, Sandro said: “I love you guys, I loved you from the beginning. I am Tottenham.”

De Zerbi has already failed to get the assistant he wants at Spurs

The new Tottenham head coach is in the process of finalising his staff, and he has already received a big blow.

Reports indicated that De Zerbi reached out to Italian icon Alessandro Nesta about becoming his assistant at Spurs.

New reports have revealed how Tottenham Hotspur players felt following Roberto De Zerbi’s first training session in north London.

A new era under Roberto De Zerbi has now kicked off at Tottenham Hotspur, with the Italian taking his first training session with his Spurs squad.

However, while many Tottenham players were present in training, others missed out, with Mohammed Kudus, Cristian Romero, Rodrigo Bentancur and Yves Bissouma among those not spotted.

But that did not prevent the new Spurs boss from getting his principles across to several players on the training pitches at Hotspur Way.

Tottenham training: Roberto De Zerbi leaves Spurs players excited

From the clips provided by the official Tottenham channels, a couple of things stood out from De Zerbi’s work with his group of players.

He looks to have started instilling some of his principles at Tottenham, with an emphasis on quick passes as well as beating the press.

Football.London has now revealed that the Spurs players appear to have bought into their new manager’s training methods.

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It is explained that the players went home with rave reviews of De Zerbi’s first day of training. In fact, one player is said to have told close friends that it was “outstanding”, while numerous others brought glowing reports about the level of the work.

It is hardly surprising to hear such reports, from the players as fans were also given a glimpse of the first training session.

We could hear snippets of what De Zerbi was telling his players, and it all pointed towards what his version of Tottenham will eventually be.

During one rondo, he stressed the importance of quick passing and movement. He said: “One or two touch. With two touch it is impossible to lose the ball because we are five to pass against two. Enjoy, enjoy but you have to move. Enjoy with the ball.

“A lot of teams now they come man to man. Man to man you need to pass the ball. It is important, one touch, two touch.”

He later addressed how he wants his side to deal with pressure, a message that underlines his philosophy of building from the back. He added: “Keep the ball, keep the ball. Attract the pressure. Attract the pressure. The speed of the ball possession, the opponent decides our speed. When they are coming in front, we need to be faster in moving the ball, giving angles, giving solutions.”

Spurs youngsters catch De Zerbi’s eye in training session

Not only was De Zerbi looking to improve the build-up and play-out aspects of Spurs’ game, but the manager also appeared to show interest in a few of his new players.

The Italian made a point of seeking out Lucas Bergvall, placing an arm around the youngster and engaging him in detailed conversations across different areas of the pitch.

De Zerbi was also seen speaking with Mathys Tel during a rondo, seemingly offering guidance on awareness – where to look and how to position his head before passing or turning.

Meanwhile, completing the trio of 20-year-olds, Archie Gray was a constant reference point, with the new Spurs boss frequently calling his name while instructing on the pitch.