Roberto De Zerbi was appointed head coach of Tottenham Hotspur in March 2026 to help the club avoid relegation from the Premier League [1, 2, 3]. After Tottenham secured survival with a victory over Everton on the season's final day in May, the club embarked on its busiest and most expensive summer transfer window since 2013, spending over £300 million to overhaul the squad [2, 3].
Key signings include Sandro Tonali for £92.5 million, Mateus Fernandes for £85 million, Jan Paul van Hecke for £52 million, along with Savinho and Omar Marmoush for £85 million and £75 million respectively [2, 3]. De Zerbi had been involved in discussing transfer targets even before his appointment was finalized in March 2026 [2].
De Zerbi defended the heavy investment amid Premier League competition, stating, "Maybe if Tottenham spend money [it] is a problem in the Premier League? I don’t know why, but all the other teams have spent money in the past and also in this season" [2]. He described the previous season's relegation battle as a source of motivation, saying, "Last season, all other clubs wanted to kill us" and that he reminds his players of this as inspiration to improve [2].
Tactically, De Zerbi initially introduced a style focusing on build-up play from ball-playing centre-backs and vertical passing through midfield. Opponents having adapted, Tottenham is now evolving their approach to progress play through wider flanks or by pulling defenders and midfielders out of position [1].
Looking ahead, De Zerbi stressed the importance of establishing a clear playing style and team identity before setting high competitive targets. He said, "Now is the moment to think about Brentford, to complete the transfer market and then to make the point and follow the two targets I set: to find the soul and the style of play" [3].
Tottenham confirmed Jan Paul van de Ven as the new team captain ahead of the 2026-27 season in August 2026 [3]. The club continues to prepare for the upcoming campaign as De Zerbi focuses on integrating new signings and refining the team’s tactical approach [1].
