Tottenham Hotspur are gearing up for a pivotal season under new manager Roberto De Zerbi, who took charge following a difficult campaign last year. De Zerbi, known for his meticulous and attacking approach, is working to rebuild the club's confidence and cohesion after narrowly avoiding relegation on the final day of the previous Premier League season.
Central to this revitalization is midfielder James Maddison, who has returned strongly after an anterior cruciate ligament injury sustained in Seoul a year prior. Maddison spoke positively about the managerial change, emphasizing De Zerbi’s clarity of vision and the demand for improved performance and pride in representing the club. "The goals are to be better, to play better football, to be passionate, to be proud to play for this club," Maddison said. He acknowledged the ongoing adjustment to the new system but expressed excitement about the style of play encouraged by De Zerbi, describing it as “very attacking.”
Tottenham have backed their new coach’s ambitions with a record £237 million investment in six players this summer, including high-profile signings like Sandro Tonali for £100 million and Mateus Fernandes for £85 million. Alongside these midfield acquisitions, the club has also strengthened defensively with the arrivals of Andy Robertson, Jan Paul van Hecke, and Marcos Senesi. Early indications during pre-season suggest defensive improvements, with Spurs yet to concede a goal.
Currently on a pre-season tour in Oceania, Tottenham are preparing for the Premier League opener against Brentford on August 22. Maddison described the tour as crucial preparation and a valuable opportunity to connect with supporters worldwide. The side is scheduled to face Sydney FC followed by a high-profile friendly against Chelsea, matches intended to further integrate De Zerbi’s tactical demands and assess squad depth.
The pre-season also provides a platform for fringe and youth players aiming to impress. Winger Mikey Moore, currently attracting interest from Rangers and FC Koln, along with Jamie Donley and Dane Scarlett, are competing for inclusion in the manager’s plans. Seventeen-year-old Luca Williams-Barnett is among the young talents hoping to break into the senior squad this season.
Meanwhile, winger Manor Solomon appears set to leave Tottenham permanently despite featuring in recent friendlies. The club is also reportedly awaiting formal transfer interest from Juventus for goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, who has not been included in the touring squad.
As Tottenham seek to translate their significant spending and rebuilt squad into consistent Premier League success, De Zerbi’s emphasis on an expansive, attacking style and player development will be central to their bid for a stronger showing in the upcoming campaign.