Tottenham Hotspur finds itself at the bottom of the Premier League table after the first month of the 2023-24 season, despite undertaking the largest spending spree in the club’s history. Under the management of Roberto De Zerbi, who took charge in late March, the team has struggled to find cohesion, raising questions about the effectiveness of recent transfer strategies and tactical decisions.

After finishing 17th in the previous two campaigns, Tottenham invested heavily in new players during the summer transfer window, reportedly paying premium fees—potentially £20 million over asking—for key signings. Among these acquisitions are midfielders Mateus Fernandes and Sandro Tonali, who cost around £85 million and £100 million respectively. The intention appeared to be forming a strong central pairing capable of controlling games. However, Fernandes has often started from the bench and been substituted early, leaving doubts about the midfield combination’s readiness or suitability. The team’s midfield structure also includes Rodrigo Bentancur in a defensive role, with several No. 10 players hampered by injuries or fitness issues. This has contributed to a lack of clarity in the team's formation and style of play.

Offensively, Spurs have struggled markedly. The club endured a goalless stretch spanning 445 minutes before managing two late goals against Aston Villa, with both scored by players not traditionally known for goal-scoring—Conor Gallagher and Jan Paul van Hecke. Gallagher, seen as a less creative midfielder, has been the team’s most productive attacking outlet in the early matches. Additionally, Antonio Conte’s former forward Richarlison remains sidelined from the frontline, while Dominic Solanke, the only specialist centre-forward available, has faced injuries. The usage of versatile winger Omar Marmoush in multiple attacking roles, including striker and left wing, has highlighted uncertainty about player roles. Further scrutiny has fallen on Tottenham’s acquisition of winger Savio (formerly known as Savinho), signed for an initial £75 million with significant add-ons despite a modest goal-scoring record at Manchester City, prompting debate over the club’s recruitment criteria amid inflated transfer fees.

Beyond on-pitch difficulties, De Zerbi has expressed concerns regarding a lack of leadership within the squad. However, his exclusion of Andy Robertson, regarded by many as a natural leader, from the club’s leadership group has drawn criticism. While De Zerbi has stated that “you can’t buy mentality,” some observers view this stance as an attempt to deflect accountability onto players rather than accept organizational responsibility. His relatively short managerial tenures—never exceeding three years at previous clubs—have opened questions about the advisability of granting him extensive control over a major squad overhaul so soon.

With only five league fixtures completed, Tottenham’s poor start has sparked speculation about whether the club is embroiled in a transitional “learning period” or facing deeper systemic issues. The team’s current position at 20th place, the only side yet to score a Premier League goal through most of September, contrasts sharply with the high expectations set by their record-level spending. As the season develops, the ability of De Zerbi and his squad to integrate new players effectively and establish a clear tactical identity will be crucial in determining whether Tottenham can avoid another battle against relegation and fulfill aspirations of competing for European qualification.