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Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi has called on his squad to embody “soul and passion” as the club undergoes a significant rebuilding process following a tense battle to remain in the Premier League last season. The London side narrowly escaped relegation, finishing 17th, prompting a determined effort to strengthen the team ahead of the new campaign.
This summer, Spurs have made a series of high-profile acquisitions in an attempt to reverse their fortunes. Among the notable signings are midfielders Mateus Fernandes from West Ham and Sandro Tonali from Newcastle. Additionally, De Zerbi has brought in centre-back Jan Paul van Hecke from his former club Brighton, enhancing the defensive options.
The squad’s transformation also includes free transfers such as full-back Andy Robertson, centre-back Marcos Senesi, and goalkeeper Martin Dubravka, signaling a clear shift toward a fresh and reinvigorated lineup.
De Zerbi’s Vision for Tottenham’s Future
Speaking from Sydney during the team’s pre-season tour, De Zerbi emphasized that the upcoming season, which kicks off on August 22, demands more than just technical ability. He expressed his ambition to assemble a team not only equipped with talented players but also driven by strong values and commitment. “I want to build a new team with the qualities, with big players, but with soul, with passion, with all the values we have,” he explained.
Elaborating on his holistic approach, the Italian coach highlighted that modern football extends beyond the 90 minutes on the pitch. “Football now is not just on the pitch, it’s not just with the ball, it’s before, it’s in life. It’s how many hours during the day you think about your job,” De Zerbi stated, underlining the importance of mental dedication and professionalism.
Tottenham’s preparations have started positively, with a 2-0 victory over A-League champions Auckland FC in New Zealand. Goals from Dane Scarlett and Richarlison secured the win, setting an encouraging tone for the tour. The squad is scheduled to face Sydney FC next, continuing their pre-season campaign in Australia.
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