Tottenham Hotspur showed signs of progress under manager Roberto De Zerbi despite a 1-1 draw against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Saturday. The match, marked by numerous errors and disruptions, provided a mixed but cautiously optimistic assessment of Spurs’ development this season.

Dominic Solanke, wearing the captain’s armband in the absence of key players, scored a late equalizer to salvage a point for Tottenham after they had been reduced to 10 men. The team’s energy and resilience in the second half contrasted with a first period in which their finishing was notably wasteful. Tottenham’s intensity during the match even dampened Manchester United supporters’ usual jeers, shifting their focus back to concerns over their own team’s performance.

De Zerbi acknowledged areas that require improvement but expressed satisfaction with the team’s character and commitment, qualities he feels were lacking for an extended period. “From a long time Tottenham played without this blood, this character, and I want it,” he said after the game. His focus remains on fostering teamwork and cohesion, emphasizing off-field bonding as a pathway to on-field success. He recommended players continue to “work together, stay together, have dinner together and get to know each other better,” highlighting the ongoing nature of the rebuilding process.

Despite the slow pace of progress, the manager retains hope that Spurs are moving in the right direction. The match against Manchester United offered indications that, although development may be slower than desired, improvements in mentality and unity could provide a foundation for future success. With consistency and sharper finishing required, Tottenham’s campaign under De Zerbi remains a work in progress as they seek to climb the Premier League table.