Roberto De Zerbi makes relegation vow in first words as new Tottenham manager | OneFootball

Italian returns to Premier League with task of keeping struggling Spurs up

De Zerbi joined Spurs on Tuesday, signing a five-year contract to take over from former interim manager Igor Tudor, who left the club by mutual consent after just seven games at the helm.

Spurs were keen to make a long-term appointment when looking to replace Tudor, and speaking in his first interview since being appointed manager, De Zerbi underlined his commitment to the club.

“I signed five years of contract because for me, it is a big challenge and I will be the coach of Tottenham next season, no matter what,” he told the club’s official website.

De Zerbi arrives at Spurs with the club facing up to the prospect of being relegated to the second division for the first time in nearly 50 years.

The former Brighton boss is under no illusions about the size of the task ahead of him, acknowledging that he has inherited a tough situation, with Spurs yet to win a league game in 2026.

“I know very well it is a tough moment” De Zerbi continued.

“It is a difficult moment for everyone of Tottenham, (but) I think we have the right qualities to come out from this moment.

“I believe in the players. I think we have to remember who we are, and who the players are because we have very big players.

“We have to work in their confidence and in their qualities. They have to show what they are and what (level) they are used to playing.”