Micky van de Ven says Tottenham’s summer transfer spree has transformed the club’s mood, with Roberto De Zerbi bringing fresh ambition and an exciting attacking style.

Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven believes the club’s record-breaking summer spending has injected fresh optimism into the squad after two difficult Premier League campaigns that left Spurs fighting to avoid relegation.

The North London club survived by the narrowest of margins last season, finishing 17th and securing safety only on the final day. In response, Tottenham backed new manager Roberto De Zerbi with a club-record transfer outlay of £237 million as they look to rebuild ahead of the new campaign.

Among the headline arrivals are midfielders Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United and Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United, while Dutch defender Jan Paul van Hecke joined from Brighton and Hove Albion. Tottenham are also expected to strengthen further before the transfer window closes.

Speaking during the club’s pre-season tour in Sydney, Van de Ven said the level of investment demonstrates that Tottenham are determined to move forward after last season’s disappointment.

“It’s really good that you can see the club has made some changes,” the Dutch international said. “You can see the club has a new ambition. It’s something that’s really important for players who have been here for a long time. Last season was a stressful season, unacceptable from our side, so to leave all of that behind and go into the new season fresh means a lot.”

Van de Ven Welcomes De Zerbi’s Attacking Philosophy

Van de Ven also praised De Zerbi’s footballing philosophy, suggesting supporters can expect a far more entertaining Tottenham side this season after the pragmatic approach that characterized much of the previous campaign.

“It’s going to be more with the ball, I think, more about playing football,” he explained. “I think it’s also going to be more enjoyable for people to watch because we’ll be playing offensive football.”

The defender added that De Zerbi has already had a noticeable impact on the atmosphere around the squad, crediting the Italian with lifting spirits following a difficult year. “It is something we needed because everybody was a little bit down. He brings a lot of good energy and, from pre-season, we have really had the time to bring his football into the team. That’s really enjoyable.”

De Zerbi took charge with seven matches remaining last season and guided Tottenham to three victories, helping the club finish two points above 18th-placed West Ham United. With a revamped squad and renewed confidence, Spurs are now hoping their significant investment and fresh tactical identity can mark the beginning of a sustained revival.