‘He Has Big Potential’ – Roberto De Zerbi Backs Tottenham Star | OneFootball

Dan Mullan/Getty Images

Tottenham Hotspur boss Roberto De Zerbi has hailed Mathys Tel’s ‘big potential’, suggesting the centre-forward has the attributes to develop into a key player for the Lilywhites.

The French forward spent the second half of last season on loan from Bayern Munich at Tottenham before making the move permanent in June.

He impressed under then manager Ange Postecoglou, registering five goal contributions in 20 appearances last season, often playing a supporting role in the club’s Europa League title-winning campaign and earning praise from team-mate James Maddison.

He took time to adapt to the demands of the Premier League, starting the season without consistent minutes under former manager Thomas Frank, although Spurs were unwilling to entertain offers for the 21-year-old attacker during the January window despite his own dissatisfaction.

In the winter window, Italian giants Roma were among those to show interest, while Paris FC also made a bold move, describing him as an “absolute dream” transfer target.

Now under De Zerbi, he is beginning to settle into his rhythm in north London, featuring in all five matches since the Italian’s arrival and registering a goal and an assist.

Against Leeds United at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium last week, he produced a superb strike before later conceding a penalty in a game that finished 1-1.

De Zerbi assessed the French attacker’s overall profile, noting that he is a mature character, particularly in his behaviour off the pitch despite his age, with limited game time having shaped his development on it.

The 46-year-old highlighted his strong potential and positive attitude, underlining his resilience and character, and stated that Tel can continue to develop into a more complete and high-level player for Spurs.

When asked how the 21-year-old reacted to his misstep against Leeds, the Spurs boss said at a press conference (14:29): “Great reaction

“He’s a mature guy, maybe more outside of the pitch than on the pitch because he is not playing so many games in his career.

“But he has big potential and is a lovely guy.

“He is a positive guy.

“He has strong character, and I think in the future he can play better and better, and he can become a great player for us.”

The Spurs youngster has once again emerged on the radar of Roma, with Gian Piero Gasperini believed to have placed him on a shortlist of attacking targets, although his importance under De Zerbi could make a departure less straightforward.

Spurs have been embroiled in a relegation battle in the second half of the season and, with two matches remaining, are still yet to guarantee their safety.