Tottenham boss Roberto De Zerbi: “I don’t have a magic wand” | OneFootball

Roberto De Zerbi’s move to Tottenham in March came as a major shock to many. Initially, the Italian seemed keen on waiting out the campaign to make a decision about his future but he has jumped right in after the spell at Marseille.

The challenge is enormous. This is probably the biggest club De Zerbi has managed but they find themselves in an relegation battle. 

For someone who instills his own ideas, De Zerbi might not have too much for that at Tottenham. In a chat with Sky Italia – via Di Marzio, he made it clear that the problem amongst the players is more mental than tactical.

He said: “It’s certainly exciting. We’re talking about a great club with great players. They won few games in 2025 and still none in 2026. I don’t think the key is footballing but more mental.”

The Italian revealed he initially thought he would return to the Premier League next season. But Tottenham were set to have many players back in action and this motivated him to take up the chance.

“I thought I would return to the Premier League next season , then the final contact with Tottenham was very quick. I saw that many players were returning and that the first match we were supposed to play would be on April 12th. So I had a bit of time to get in and understand, rather than to propose and do. So I took it as a great opportunity.”

The 46-year-old clarified he doesn’t have a magic wand and is only hoping to inject his ideas about the game into the squad.

“I’m certainly not a magician. I consider the other coaches who have passed through here, Tudor and Frank, both very good. I don’t have a magic wand that can change things.

He also hinted at the fact that he isn’t hoping to change too much and is probably more focused on results.

“I hope to bring something of my own in terms of character and motivation. Then something on the pitch, but not much because this isn’t the time to do too much .”

Tottenham’s next game will see them take on Sunderland on Sunday. A win can actually take them as high as 16th but a loss can bring them down to 18th too.