Watch: De Zerbi greets his biggest critic with a handshake after keeping Tottenham Hotspur up | OneFootball

Roberto De Zerbi’s post-match press conference following Tottenham’s survival on the final day was as entertaining as, if not far more than, anything seen on the pitch this season for the North London club, with the Italian coach producing a moment that perfectly encapsulates his personality and the relief of keeping the club in the top flight.

SUNDERLAND, ENGLAND – APRIL 12: Roberto De Zerbi, Manager of Tottenham Hotspur, looks on prior to the Premier League match between Sunderland and Tottenham Hotspur at Stadium of Light on April 12, 2026 in Sunderland, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

De Zerbi sees funny side as Spurs finish in 17th

With a broad smile upon entering the room, the coach called out a journalist who had been a regular negative presence at the training ground throughout his tenure.

“Where is he? Where is he? That negative journalist who was always at the training centre?” he said. “Go and get him.”

Times journalist Tom Allnutt was in the mixed zone at the time but the coach requested he be brought before him.

The reporter was duly brought to the room, up to the stage, at which point De Zerbi greeted him with a smile and a warm handshake.