Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi has maintained that midfielder Sandro Tonali is not under undue pressure despite being the club’s record signing this summer. Tonali joined Spurs from Newcastle for £92.5 million and has started all four Premier League matches so far this season. However, Spurs have yet to score in those games, drawing twice and losing twice, while Tonali has posted modest defensive statistics and created just three chances.

Speaking ahead of Tottenham’s upcoming home fixture against Aston Villa, De Zerbi acknowledged the challenges players often face when relocating and adapting to new environments. “It is not so easy to change city, to change everything, for the players. Sometimes the adaptation is immediate, sometimes you need more time,” he said.

The manager also revealed that he had spoken directly with the 26-year-old midfielder about the expectations that come with his high transfer fee. De Zerbi emphasized that Tonali is not feeling overwhelmed by the price tag attached to his arrival. He expressed satisfaction with the player’s performances to date, noting Tonali’s versatility and skill set. “His physical characteristics are to play box to box but he started his career as a playmaker. He’s good enough with the ball and without the ball,” De Zerbi added.

Despite a mixed start, Tottenham’s manager remains confident in Tonali’s ability to adapt and contribute more significantly as the season progresses.