Sports Mole

Roberto De Zerbi is Tottenham's new head coach, the third of the season. Had this been announced in July 2025, at the start of the campaign, it could have been considered one of the Premier League's best appointments. Now, however, that is no longer the case.

The Italian replaces Igor Tudor, who oversaw a wretched run of five defeats in seven games, and will attempt to save the club from relegation with seven matches remaining. If Tudor had already disrupted the foundations Thomas Frank had been building at Spurs, De Zerbi represents an even more significant break.

Why defending the De Zerbi appointment is difficult

There is no denying that a manager of his calibre at a major Premier League club would be inherently exciting. De Zerbi is a "romantic" of football: he loves the ball, technical quality and aggressive territorial dominance. He has always been associated with aesthetically pleasing football.

Even so, it is difficult to defend the appointment at this stage of the season. Tottenham are just one point above the relegation zone, with seven defeats in their last ten games. Their most recent win — a 3-2 victory over Atletico Madrid in the Champions League — was rendered almost meaningless by their elimination from the competition.

More than that, the squad Tottenham have assembled does not appear close to the style De Zerbi demands. Worse still, several of the players most suited to his approach are currently injured, Dejan Kulusevski, James Maddison, Rodrigo Bentancur and Mohammed Kudus among them.

De Zerbi's mission, then, is close to impossible: applying a high-risk, build-from-the-back style — one that demands patience, heavy goalkeeper involvement and a team that deliberately invites pressure — to a side desperately fighting to stay up.

Possession, manipulation and controlled chaos: how Tottenham should play under De Zerbi

Following impressive spells at Sassuolo, Brighton and Marseille, De Zerbi has built a reputation as a manager capable of raising the collective level through complex and often risky tactical concepts.

De Zerbi's teams typically operate from a 3-2-5 structure in possession, a shape that, at first glance, resembles Pep Guardiola's, but with distinct objectives. Where Guardiola seeks to control the game through constant circulation and rational occupation of space, De Zerbi uses possession as a tool to manipulate the opposition. The aim is not simply to keep the ball, but to lure the opponent into errors.

The key concept is deliberately inviting pressure. The team plays short, seemingly risky passes in their own half, encouraging the opposition to push their lines higher. When that happens, De Zerbi's side look to break through that pressure with quick vertical or diagonal passes, exploiting the space left behind. The result is unpredictable, often brilliant football, but one that carries obvious risk.

Maximum width and aggressive box occupation

Another fundamental pillar of his approach is the use of wide players. Unlike teams that deploy more interior forwards, De Zerbi demands his wingers hug the touchline, stretching the pitch to its maximum width.

That width creates space for central penetrations and allows the team to attack with five players in the final line. The objective is simple: stretch the opposition's defence to breaking point and create numerical superiority in the channels.

Despite the heavy emphasis on possession, De Zerbi's football is not slow. On the contrary, verticality arrives at precisely the right moment, typically after luring the press.

This explains why his teams consistently produce high offensive numbers. Both Brighton and Marseille ranked among the best in metrics such as possession, chances created and expected goals during their respective domestic campaigns.

The downside, however, is clear. Having so many players committed to attacking leaves space exposed in defensive transitions. It is no coincidence that his teams have frequently ranked among those conceding the most goals from counter-attacks and direct play.

How the Spurs squad fits De Zerbi's system

Implementing this model at Tottenham will depend entirely on how well the squad adapts. Despite the difficulties, there are players who appear naturally suited to his demands. In midfield, Archie Gray and Lucas Bergvall fit the profile he favours, young, technically gifted, mobile and positionally intelligent.

In defence, Djed Spence could be a key piece in the transition to a back three, while Pedro Porro offers versatility with his ability to occupy interior zones. Further forward, Xavi Simons emerges as the ideal creative profile for the space between the lines, while Richarlison could benefit from the aggression demanded in the final third. Cristian Romero fits the model through his defensive intensity and ability to defend in open space.

The big unknown is the one-versus-one dribbler, an essential component in De Zerbi's system for breaking down defences. In that regard, the return of Mohammed Kudus could be decisive. The other concern is the volume of midfielders in the squad who do not fit the style: recent signings Joao Palhinha and Connor Gallagher, for example, are not the profile his approach requires.

Despite the theoretical fit, one factor could prove decisive against De Zerbi: time. His model is notoriously complex, demanding repetition, training and collective understanding.

Even at Brighton, the manager needed several weeks to embed his ideas, going without a win in his opening matches. The adaptation period at Tottenham could follow a similar path — but with a crucial difference: if results do not come quickly, the club will be relegated.

Curiously, Spurs find themselves in a situation with parallels to the early days of Ange Postecoglou. Possession football, high pressing and wide attacking play were already part of the club's recent repertoire during that period, which could ease the transition.

If he can implement his philosophy, De Zerbi could transform Tottenham into one of the most exciting and unpredictable teams in the Premier League. The risk is high — and the outcome is likely to be historic either way: a catastrophic relegation, or the turning point that redefines the club's direction for years to come.

Tottenham Hotspur have confirmed the appointment of Roberto De Zerbi as their third head coach of the season, following the dismissal of Igor Tudor.

The Italian has signed a five-year deal in north London, signalling a long-term vision, although he faces the immediate challenge of steering Spurs to safety with just seven games remaining.

Tottenham currently sit just one point above the relegation zone in the league table, but De Zerbi will be confident of preserving their Premier League status.

Should they avoid the drop, the summer transfer window could see Spurs target several players familiar with De Zerbi’s system.

Here, Sports Mole takes a look at five such players Roberto De Zerbi can sign for Tottenham.

Carlos Baleba (Brighton)

The 23-year-old defensive midfielder has experienced a dip in form this season, which has cooled interest from several clubs in recent months.

De Zerbi signed Baleba from Lille for £23m and believed he had the potential to develop into the next Moises Caicedo.

With Joao Palhinha unlikely to join permanently, Spurs could be tempted to take a calculated gamble on Baleba at a reduced fee.

Geronimo Rulli (Marseille)

The Argentine goalkeeper has been a regular presence for Marseille this season, starting 24 Ligue 1 matches.

With Guglielmo Vicario linked with a potential exit and Antonin Kinsky facing an uncertain future, Spurs may look to reinforce their goalkeeping department.

Rulli’s experience and consistency, combined with a contract nearing its final year, could make him an attractive and affordable option.

Kaoru Mitoma (Brighton)

The Japanese winger arguably enjoyed his best spell under De Zerbi, registering 23 goal contributions in 48 appearances.

His direct style, pace, and creativity make him a natural fit for the system De Zerbi prefers.

Son Heung Min's departure has left a massive hole on the left-hand side, and Mitoma could be brought in to fill the gap.

Timothy Weah (Marseille)

Weah has been linked with Tottenham in the past, although no concrete move materialised.

The 26-year-old has scored two goals and provided two assists in 24 league appearances this season, figures that do not fully reflect his overall contribution.

His ability to operate at right-back, left-back, right midfield, and on the wing could make him a valuable utility option in an injury-hit squad.

Manuel Locatelli (Juventus)

Locatelli has been identified as a key tactical fit for De Zerbi’s system due to his composure and control in midfield.

The 27-year-old brings significant experience at both club and international levels, offering leadership and stability.

A deal in the region of £22m could be enough to secure his services, making him a practical and strategic addition for Spurs.

Tottenham Hotspur’s focus may be on survival in the short term, but plans for the future are already beginning to take shape under new leadership in the dugout.

The north Londoners have moved quickly following the appointment of Roberto De Zerbi, with attention turning towards potential additions who can fit his long-term vision.

Even with the immediate pressure of results, recruitment discussions are underway, and one name has already emerged as a priority target for the Italian tactician.

Manuel Locatelli is on Roberto De Zerbi transfer shortlist at Spurs

Juventus midfielder Manuel Locatelli has been identified as a key name on De Zerbi’s early transfer 'wish list', with fresh reports from Italy suggesting the 27-year-old has already been highlighted during initial talks with the club’s hierarchy.

The Old Lady star is viewed as an ideal fit for De Zerbi’s system, given his composure in possession, tactical intelligence, and ability to control the tempo in midfield.

At 27, Locatelli also brings valuable experience at both club and international level, making him an attractive option as Spurs look to rebuild with a stronger spine.

With Juventus potentially open to offers as they assess their squad and financial position, past reports suggest a deal in the region of £22 million could be enough to bring him to north London.

Premier League status will depend on Manuel Locatelli move

However, any move for Locatelli is likely to hinge heavily on Tottenham’s survival in the Premier League.

The Italy international is a regular for his country and would be expected to prioritise top-level football at this stage of his career. Juventus themselves are by no means certain to secure Champions League football, and that's something that Spurs won't be able to offer in any potential race for his signature.

If Spurs were to suffer relegation, convincing a player of his calibre to join would become significantly more difficult, regardless of De Zerbi’s influence.

Even in the event of survival, competition for his signature could emerge, particularly from clubs able to offer European football and greater stability.

For Tottenham, this underlines the urgency of their current situation.

Securing their top-flight status is not just about avoiding embarrassment, as it could directly impact their ability to attract the calibre of players De Zerbi wants to build his project around.

Tottenham Hotspur’s decision to appoint Roberto De Zerbi marks another turning point in what has become a turbulent and defining period for the North London club.

Over the past few seasons, Spurs have struggled to establish managerial continuity, cycling through multiple head coaches in search of a long-term identity, and that instability has translated onto the pitch where inconsistent performances have seen the club drift from European contention into a relegation battle.

The 2025–26 campaign has been particularly alarming, as despite lifting the UEFA Europa League last season, Tottenham now sit just one point above the Premier League relegation zone with only seven matches remaining, having failed to win a league game since December.

The dismissal of Igor Tudor after a brief spell without a single league victory only reinforced the growing urgency surrounding the club’s direction.

It is within this context that De Zerbi arrives, tasked with both securing immediate survival and rebuilding a fractured footballing identity.

A long-term gamble in a short-term crisis

Tottenham have handed De Zerbi a five-year contract, signalling strong belief in a long-term project despite the immediate threat of relegation, with no relegation break clause included, thereby committing both club and coach to the partnership regardless of their league status.

Reports also suggest the Italian could earn a significant survival bonus if he keeps Spurs in the Premier League, underlining the high stakes tied to his appointment, and this is not merely a short-term firefighting role, as Tottenham’s hierarchy have made it clear that De Zerbi was their preferred long-term candidate and moved quickly to secure him amid the crisis.

De Zerbi has built his reputation on progressive, attack-minded football, rising to prominence at Sassuolo where he guided the club to consecutive eighth-place Serie A finishes while establishing a clear tactical identity.

His global breakthrough came in the Premier League with Brighton, where he led the club to a historic sixth-place finish and European qualification, an unprecedented achievement in their history.

Following his success in England, De Zerbi moved to Marseille, where he enjoyed a strong debut season by finishing second in Ligue 1 and recording one of the club’s best win rates in modern history before departing in February 2026.

De Zerbi's tactical identity

Tottenham’s decision is rooted in a desire to restore a clear footballing identity, with De Zerbi widely regarded as one of Europe’s most innovative coaches and even praised by elite managers such as Pep Guardiola for his influence on modern tactical thinking.

His football is built on possession, positional play, and the manipulation of space, with his teams known for building from the back and deliberately inviting opposition pressure, as instead of clearing the ball under pressure, he encourages defenders and goalkeepers to remain composed, draw opponents forward, and then play through them to create space higher up the pitch and enable rapid progression once defensive lines are broken.

At Brighton, players such as Lewis Dunk, Alexis Mac Allister, and Moises Caicedo thrived in this system due to their ability to operate under pressure, and once space was created, his teams would transition quickly into attack, shifting from patient possession to vertical progression with wide players and attacking midfielders exploiting gaps created during build-up, often resulting in fluid, high-scoring football.

Wide players have historically played a crucial role in De Zerbi’s teams, as seen at Brighton where Kaoru Mitoma and Solly March flourished thanks to their ability to exploit space and dominate one-on-one situations.

However, his tactical bravery also introduces defensive vulnerabilities, as his teams press aggressively and commit numbers forward, which can leave them exposed during transitions, a risk Tottenham must carefully manage.

What to expect tactically at Spurs

At Tottenham, De Zerbi is expected to implement a possession-dominant structure aimed at controlling matches rather than reacting to them, with his teams prioritising ball retention and structured build-up, which could help address Spurs’ inconsistency and lack of control this season.

The challenge lies in execution, as Spurs have struggled defensively and lack the composure under pressure that De Zerbi’s system demands, meaning that with only two home league wins all season and a prolonged winless run, the squad must quickly adapt to a style requiring technical precision and confidence.

In the short term, pragmatism may be necessary, as with survival the immediate objective, De Zerbi could balance his philosophy with more direct solutions to secure points quickly, although over time the expectation remains a transition toward a clearly defined attacking identity.

Tottenham’s squad and tactical compatibility

Tottenham’s current squad appears well suited to De Zerbi’s philosophy, particularly in midfield, where James Maddison could thrive in an advanced creative role if he remains fit, maximising his ability to find space and link play, while Pape Matar Sarr offers the energy and pressing intensity required and Yves Bissouma already understands the Italian’s demands from their time together at Brighton.

The attacking options also align well with De Zerbi’s vertical approach, as Xavi Simons brings pace and unpredictability in transition, Dejan Kulusevski offers creativity and intelligence in wide areas, and Richarlison alongside Dominic Solanke provide pressing intensity and movement across the front line, all of which are key to his attacking structure.

Defensively, Tottenham possess players capable of adapting to his build-up approach, with Cristian Romero comfortable progressing the ball from the back, Micky van de Ven adding pace and composure in possession, and Pedro Porro’s attacking quality from full-back proving vital in supporting the overall philosophy.

Why De Zerbi could work and the risks

De Zerbi’s appointment provides Tottenham with a clear tactical identity, as his attacking football aligns with the club’s traditional philosophy while his emphasis on technical quality and positional play suits the current squad.

Another major strength is his track record in player development, as he has consistently improved individuals and helped them reach higher performance levels, something that could greatly benefit Tottenham’s squad.

However, there are notable risks, as his high-risk build-up approach can lead to defensive mistakes, particularly during the early stages of implementation, while defensive stability remains a concern given his teams’ tendency to concede due to their aggressive attacking style, an issue Tottenham have already faced in recent seasons.

Ultimately, this appointment represents both risk and ambition, as the club have turned to one of Europe’s most distinctive tactical minds not only to avoid relegation but to reshape their long-term future.

Whether that gamble pays off will depend on how quickly his ideas take hold and whether Spurs can adapt fast enough to survive, but if they do, De Zerbi could not only secure their Premier League status but also lay the foundation for a new era built on progressive, modern football.

Tottenham Hotspur have confirmed the appointment of Roberto De Zerbi as their new manager on a long-term contract, and the Italian has spoken for the first time since being handed the reins.

Barely 30 minutes after it was reported that De Zerbi had agreed to join Spurs with immediate effect, the Lilywhites have unveiled the former Brighton & Hove Albion and Marseille boss as their third head coach of the season.

De Zerbi is understood to have penned a five-year deal with the Europa League holders until the summer of 2031, although his arrival is still subject to a work permit.

Speaking to the official Tottenham website after his appointment was announced, De Zerbi revealed his "complete focus" for the rest of the season, as he endeavours to drag Spurs away from the Premier League relegation zone.

“I am delighted to be joining this fantastic football club, which is one of the biggest and most prestigious in the world," the Italian said.

Roberto De Zerbi sets out Tottenham "ambition" as appointment confirmed

"In all my discussions with the Club’s leadership, their ambition for the future has been clear – to build a team capable of reaching great achievements, and to do that playing a style of football that excites and inspires our supporters.

"I am here because I believe in that ambition and have signed a long-term contract to give everything to deliver it.

“Our short-term priority is to climb the Premier League table, which will be the complete focus until the final whistle of the last game of the season. I’m looking forward to getting out on the training pitch and working with these players to achieve that."

Meanwhile, sporting director Johan Lange has revealed that De Zerbi was the Lilywhites' top pick for a new manager in the summer, as opposed to Mauricio Pochettino, Oliver Glasner or Andoni Iraola.

"Roberto was our number one target for the summer and we are very pleased to be able to bring him in now," Lange added. “He is one of the most creative and forward-thinking coaches in world football, and brings with him a wealth of experience at the highest level, including in the Premier League."

De Zerbi's first Premier League game in charge of Tottenham comes away to Sunderland on April 12, before a home clash with former club Brighton on April 18.

Tottenham listen to and ignore fans with Roberto De Zerbi appointment

Spurs fans crave attacking football - it is in the DNA of the club - and the appointment of the forward-thinking De Zerbi is a shift back towards the attractive, high-risk style of play that the Lilywhites faithful crave.

At the same time, however, many Tottenham supporters have been left uncomfortable by De Zerbi's arrival, following the Italian's staunch defence of Mason Greenwood while the pair were working together at Marseille.

Greenwood had been charged with attempted rape, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour before all charges were dropped, due to key witnesses withdrawing and new evidence coming to light.

De Zerbi labelled Greenwood a "good guy" who had paid a "heavy price" during his time in England, but the ex-Brighton boss has some serious work to do to get all Tottenham fans onside.

Tottenham Hotspur appear to have finally made a decisive move in the dugout.

After weeks of uncertainty and mounting pressure, the north London outfit have acted swiftly to address their managerial situation at a critical point in the campaign.

They have now turned to a highly-rated tactician, with confirmation emerging that a new era is set to begin imminently.

Roberto De Zerbi agrees to become next Spurs manager

According to renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano, Roberto De Zerbi has agreed to become Tottenham’s new head coach, accepting the role "with immediate effect" following advanced talks with the club hierarchy.

The Italian had previously been reluctant to take over mid-season, but Spurs’ worsening situation appears to have accelerated the process, forcing a decisive breakthrough.

His arrival ends the uncertainty surrounding the position, having seen Igor Tudor part ways after he struggled to deliver results in an interim capacity, leaving the club dangerously close to the relegation zone.

Roberto De Zerbi contract length and key details at Spurs now emerge

De Zerbi is set to sign a five-year contract in north London, per Romano, underlining Tottenham’s long-term commitment to his vision despite the immediate pressures and threat of relegation facing the team.

BBC Sport's senior football correspondent Sami Mokbel also reports that there is no relegation clause in the deal.

The move reflects the club’s belief in his progressive style and track record of improving teams, with Spurs prepared to back him both now and in the future.

Agreeing to take charge immediately also highlights De Zerbi’s willingness to embrace the challenge head-on, rather than waiting for the summer as initially expected.

Tottenham need Roberto De Zerbi to hit the ground running vs Sunderland

There will be little time for De Zerbi to settle, with a crucial away fixture against Sunderland on April 12th looming large in what is rapidly becoming a survival battle.

Tottenham’s current position means results are no longer a long-term ambition but an immediate necessity, and any positive impact must be felt straight away.

While De Zerbi’s tactical philosophy is typically associated with structured build-up and attacking control, his immediate task may require pragmatism to steady a fragile side.

If he can quickly instil belief and organisation, Spurs have the quality to pull clear of danger, but failure to deliver an early bounce could leave even a five-year project under intense early scrutiny.

USA boss Mauricio Pochettino has denied having any contact with Tottenham Hotspur and Real Madrid.

Pochettino will lead the USA into the 2026 World Cup, which will be held across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The USMNT are currently preparing for Tuesday's friendly against Portugal in Atlanta, where they will look to bounce back from a heavy 5-2 defeat to Belgium.

While Pochettino's focus is on World Cup preparations, he continues to be linked with a return to club management when his current contract expires after the World Cup.

A return to Tottenham or the head coach position at Real Madrid have both been mentioned as possibilities for the 54-year-old.

Pochettino responds to Spurs, Real Madrid links

However, Pochettino was clear in his response when asked about whether he had received any contact from Spurs and Real Madrid.

"No. At the moment, no," Pochettino told reporters on Monday. "I think we are very, very focused here in the World Cup.

"I think everyone knows that I am committed with the national team here. I think it's not a point to talk about the future at the moment."

Pochettino is also open to the possibility of extending his stint as USA head coach beyond this summer's World Cup.

"I think who knows what is going to happen?" Pochettino added. "Like I said, we are open. We don't have a contract for the future. But why not?

"If we are happy, and the federation is happy, and [we'll have] to see. I think the most important now is to be focusing [on the game against Portugal] and in the World Cup and to try to improve."

Pochettino makes Tottenham survival prediction

A return to Tottenham looks unlikely to transpire in the immediate future, with Spurs believed to be in advanced discussions with Roberto De Zerbi over the vacant head coach position.

If De Zerbi and Spurs reach a full agreement, the Marseille boss will take over a side that is languishing in 17th place and just a point above the Premier League relegation zone.

Pochettino is confident that his former club will do enough to stave off an unthinkable relegation to the Championship.

Commenting on Spurs' plight, the USA boss said: "I am sure they're going to stay up with coach or without coach because of the players, because I think Tottenham have unbelievable players, and then it's a club with the fans that are going to make everything to create that energy to win.

"Of course, that is going to be tough because the synergy and the dynamic is difficult."

Tottenham will return to action on April 12 when they head on their travels for a meeting with Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.

Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly reached a breakthrough in discussions with Roberto De Zerbi and are closing in on an agreement with the Italian to become their new head coach.

De Zerbi had been identified by the Tottenham board as their number one replacement for Igor Tudor, whose nightmarish seven-game reign was brought to an end on Sunday evening.

Rather than purely focus on the Premier League relegation battle and hire another interim manager until the end of the season, Spurs are already planning for the future and are scoping out long-term appointments.

De Zerbi was initially seen as an unattainable candidate, given that the former Brighton & Hove Albion boss was only willing to take charge of the Lilywhites if they survived the drop and had no plans to take over until the summer.

However, journalist Ben Jacobs claims that there has now been a breakthrough in talks between Spurs and De Zerbi, who has performed a U-turn on his previous stance.

Tottenham reach 'breakthrough' in talks with Roberto De Zerbi

While the 46-year-old wanted to wait until the start of next season initially, he has supposedly changed his mind due to a 'lucrative long-term deal' and is open to accepting the role ASAP.

Tottenham are supposedly prepared to offer De Zerbi a five-year deal until the end of the 2030-31 campaign, and the ex-Brighton manager is now 'close' to an agreement with the Europa League winners.

De Zerbi is primed to become Spurs head coach in spite of supporter groups campaigning against his arrival, due to the Italian's defence of Mason Greenwood while the pair worked together at Marseille.

De Zerbi left his post as Olympiens head coach in February after managing 39 wins, 10 draws and 29 defeats, prior to which he made history during his time with Brighton.

The Seagulls qualified for European football for the first time ever under De Zerbi's wing, reaching the 2023-24 Europa League before his acrimonious exit from the club at the end of that season.

What can Tottenham fans expect under Roberto De Zerbi?

A lack of identity has been one of Spurs' many Achilles heel's during the 2025-26 season, but they can be sure to have a clear philosophy under De Zerbi.

The Italian's teams have been famed for playing out from the back, inviting the press and then breaking the lines when opposing teams spring onto them - a high-risk, high-reward manoeuvre.

However, there are fears that De Zerbi's aggressive and demanding style could prove difficult for Tottenham's players to adapt to, at a time when the club need stability amid their relegation battle.

Tottenham Hotspur defying fan backlash is nothing new, and the Lilywhites could be about to do so once again, as they have reportedly identified ex-Marseille and Brighton & Hove Albion head coach Roberto De Zerbi as their number one managerial target.

Igor Tudor's inevitable departure was announced on Sunday evening following a disastrous seven-game winless sequence, in which the Croatian oversaw five defeats and masterminded just one victory to leave Tottenham one point above the relegation zone in the Premier League table.

Rather than hire another stop-gap manager, Tottenham are purportedly trying to bring in De Zerbi on a long-term contract this month, in spite of supporter groups campaigning against his arrival due to his defence of Mason Greenwood.

As Tottenham continue their efforts to hire De Zerbi, Sports Mole asked AI to predict what would happen to the Lilywhites if they were to bring in the 46-year-old.

Roberto De Zerbi to Tottenham: "Real chance" of Spurs relegation

Should De Zerbi take over as Spurs boss during the international break, his first game in charge would come away to Sunderland on April 12, before a home match against former club Brighton on April 18 and a trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers on April 25.

It is hard to make a case for Tottenham being the favourites for any of those contests, and AI has warned of a 'higher short-term risk' for Spurs in this period of fixtures, as De Zerbi's 'complex' system can be difficult for players to grasp quickly.

As a result, there is a 'real chance' that Tottenham regress further during the early days of De Zerbi's tenure, in spite of the new manager bounce phenomenon and the Italian's prior experience in the Premier League.

Spurs' chances of survival will improve 'significantly' under De Zerbi if the players can adapt to his methods relatively quickly, but the 'higher volatility' associated with the 46-year-old heightens the risk of demotion if his squad are unable to learn his philosophy.

Roberto De Zerbi to Tottenham: Tactical 'mismatch'

De Zerbi's teams have become renowned for their high-risk, high-reward play, in which they invite the opposition to press them before breaking the lines while playing out from the back.

However, Tottenham have been found wanting when trying to pass their way out of danger all season - especially under Thomas Frank - and AI warns that their squad is not suitably primed for 'extreme build-up football'.

Instead, the Europa League holders should be prioritising 'simplicity and stability' while trying to drag themselves away from the drop zone, which does not align with De Zerbi's demands for 'tactical bravery' and 'controlled chaos'.

Therefore, Tottenham and De Zerbi would be a short-term 'mismatch', but if the Italian can keep the Lilywhites up and mould the squad into his own vision over the summer, Spurs should kick on in 2026-27.

Roberto De Zerbi to Tottenham: Winners and losers?

Unfortunately for Tottenham fans, two of the biggest 'winners' from De Zerbi to Tottenham in the eyes of AI are two long-term injury victims; James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski.

The pair have been predicted to thrive creatively under the Italian, but Maddison is at risk of missing the whole season with an ACL injury, while there is no official timeframe on Kulusevski's comeback either.

However, De Zerbi's aggressive style could also suit Micky van de Ven, as AI suggests that the pacy defender will be the 'perfect fit' to cover large spaces in the 46-year-old's system.

On the other hand, Tottenham's top scorer this season - Richarlison - has been highlighted as a potential loser, as De Zerbi would favour a more technical centre-forward than the 'chaotic' Brazilian.

Furthermore, De Zerbi's demands on goalkeepers could negatively impact Guglielmo Vicario, as the Italy international has never fully convinced with the ball at his feet; he has been strongly linked with an exit this summer regardless.

Roberto De Zerbi to Tottenham: Overall verdict

The short-term picture generated by AI makes for grim reading for Tottenham supporters, who have been warned that their side's risk of Premier League relegation may increase if De Zerbi's demands prove too much in too short a timeframe.

The ex-Brighton manager can be expected to bring 'high chaos' and 'volatility' to North London, and Spurs' adaptation speed will be the defining factor in whether they can survive the drop.

On the other hand, if the Lilywhites retain their top-tier status and De Zerbi stays in control of the reins, their ceiling will be 'very high', and fans can expect 'attractive football' to return to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

De Zerbi is not a firefighter in the same sense as Tudor, Sean Dyche or Sam Allardyce, and after the former's appointment ended disastrously, perhaps this risk is one worth taking.

Former Monaco boss Adi Hutter has ruled himself out of the Tottenham Hotspur job as he does not want a new role before the end of the season.

Spurs only have seven games left to save their Premier League status, as while they are outside of the relegation zone in 17th place, they are only one point above 18th-placed West Ham United.

With Tottenham in such a dire situation, it came as no surprise that interim boss Igor Tudor was sacked on Sunday, but his dismissal has led the club scrambling to find a successor.

Hutter was linked with the job, but he has insisted that he does not want to return to management this season, telling reporters: "In recent days and weeks, I have been increasingly linked with various clubs.

"However, as I already stated immediately after my time at Monaco, I would prefer not to work as a head coach again until the start of the new season at the earliest. My position on this matter has not changed since then."

The Austrian was sacked by Monaco on October 9 last year, and his comments come as a blow given he was thought to be among Tottenham's main targets.

Would Adi Hutter have been right for Tottenham Hotspur?

The most notable teams that Hutter has coached have been Eintracht Frankfurt, Borussia Monchengladbach and Monaco, but his success at these sides was mixed.

He was named coach of the year in 2019 by he union of professional football players in Germany when in charge of Frankfurt, but he left to join Gladbach for the 2021-22 season, only to leave by mutual consent after guiding the team to a tenth-placed finish.

The 56-year-old helped Monaco earn a second-placed finish in Ligue 1 in 2023-24, as well as a third-placed finish in 2024-25, but he was sacked this season with the club in fifth place.

Though Hutter's record is by no means poor, he does not have experience of the type of relegation battle that Spurs are currently facing, and that would have made appointing him risky.

Why Tottenham Hotspur face challenge to attract Tudor replacement

Tottenham would be an attractive proposition for most managers at the start of a season, but it would be understandable if most looked to distance themselves from the job until the end of 2025-26.

The prospect of coaching a team in the Championship would no doubt be unappealing to numerous candidates, especially as a host of first-team players would likely depart, which would make the environment even more chaotic.

Other candidates may not want to risk being used in the dugout for just seven Premier League games before being discarded for a different target, and that has reportedly made managerial targets like Sean Dyche hesitant.