Tottenham's pre-season under Roberto De Zerbi has been a mixed bag, offering both promise and challenges. As the new manager embarks on his first full campaign, here's a deep dive into three key lessons learned from the club's recent activities.
1. Attacking Reinforcements are Imperative
Tottenham's summer spending spree, totaling £237 million, was a bold move to reshape the squad. However, the real test lies in the attacking department. De Zerbi's belief in the need for two or three more signings highlights a potential weakness. The club's pre-season results, while positive, have been somewhat underwhelming, with a reliance on defensive solidity. The absence of a clinical finisher could be a hindrance, especially against top-tier opposition. The future of homegrown talent like Moore hangs in the balance, as his development is intricately tied to the club's ability to strengthen the attack.
2. Fitness Concerns Threaten Momentum
The fitness of key players has been a recurring issue, disrupting the team's momentum. De Zerbi's pre-season was marred by the absence of Destiny Udogie, Micky van de Ven, and the long-term injury to Xavi Simons. The management of minutes for Dominic Solanke, James Maddison, and Mateus Fernandes further underscores the challenge. The return of Mohammed Kudus and Dejan Kulusevski from injuries is a positive, but their limited game time raises questions. With a demanding Premier League schedule ahead, the club must address these fitness concerns to maintain a consistent performance level.
3. New Signings are Key to De Zerbi's Vision
De Zerbi's hands-on approach in signing Jan Paul van Hecke, Sandro Tonali, and Fernandes showcases his influence and vision. These players are integral to his strategy, offering midfield security, dynamism, and leadership. Tonali and Fernandes' partnership, coupled with Van Hecke's aggression, forms the bedrock of a new-look defense. The manager's defined roles for these signings have been promising, with Van Hecke's leadership and Fernandes' composure under pressure standing out. The club's recruitment strategy, tailored to De Zerbi's preferences, is a testament to their commitment to his vision, and the players have shown glimpses of their potential during pre-season.
