Roberto De Zerbi vows to remain at Tottenham Hotspur even if the club is relegated from the Premier League.
Roberto De Zerbi has confirmed he intends to remain with Tottenham Hotspur next season regardless of whether the club avoids relegation. The Italian described the situation as the biggest challenge of his managerial career and insisted he is ready to embrace it.
De Zerbi was appointed on a five-year contract with Tottenham sitting just one point above the relegation zone. With only seven matches remaining, he faces a race against time to preserve Tottenham’s long-standing top-flight status.
Tottenham have not been relegated since 1978, adding further pressure to the task. Despite reports suggesting De Zerbi was initially reluctant to take over mid-season, the long-term project and contract reportedly convinced him to accept the role.
The former Brighton & Hove Albion and Olympique de Marseille boss dismissed suggestions that his deal contains a relegation escape clause. He emphasised that his commitment extends beyond short-term results.
De Zerbi built a strong reputation in England during his time at Brighton between 2022 and 2024. He later guided Marseille to a second-place finish behind Paris Saint-Germain in Ligue 1, securing qualification for the UEFA Champions League.
However, his spell in France ended earlier this year after Marseille failed to progress from the Champions League league phase and suffered a heavy 5-0 defeat to PSG. His appointment at Tottenham has since drawn mixed reactions from sections of the fanbase.
Some supporters have voiced concerns over comments De Zerbi made while defending Mason Greenwood during their time together in Marseille. Greenwood had previously been suspended by Manchester United before charges against him were later dropped.
Addressing the issue, De Zerbi stressed he never intended to downplay serious matters and apologised to anyone who felt offended. He said he is sensitive to such topics and hopes fans will judge him over time as he focuses on guiding Tottenham through a crucial period.
