Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi expressed strong frustration following his team’s 3-2 defeat to Aston Villa in a Premier League match on Sunday. The loss leaves Tottenham without a league victory this season and with just two points after several games, as the team now enters a three-week international break.
De Zerbi criticised both the mentality and physical condition of his squad, highlighting tactical errors and a loss of composure during critical moments of the match. He singled out the performance of substitute Mohammed Kudus, saying the player disrupted the team’s balance after coming on. De Zerbi said he spoke directly to his attacking players early in the second half, urging calm and focus, but felt his message was not heeded, particularly after Aston Villa’s second goal.
The decisive goal came in the 67th minute from Villa’s Jackson, who capitalised on a long clearance by goalkeeper Zion Suzuki. De Zerbi noted that Tottenham had prepared extensively for Villa’s increased use of long balls this season and was disappointed by his side’s failure to maintain concentration, describing the concession as “incredible.” He compared the defeat to a similar pattern seen in their earlier loss at home to Newcastle, where Tottenham started well but faded in the latter stages.
As the players depart for international duty, De Zerbi refrained from delivering any final remarks, stating he preferred not to say anything to the squad at this point. He emphasized the need for improved work and commitment upon their return, acknowledging that while not everything about the team’s play was negative, the current level of performance was insufficient.
On the other side, Aston Villa manager Unai Emery praised his players for their resilience and belief, marking the victory as the club’s first Premier League win of the season. Emery credited the team’s defensive organisation and collective commitment as foundational to their success, noting the importance of building a squad capable of defending robustly while maintaining their characteristic style of play. He emphasized that the team’s strength and competitiveness were crucial to overcoming their opponents and securing the win.