Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi has urged his players to embrace the pressure of their relegation battle and use criticism from rivals as motivation ahead of a crucial clash with Chelsea.
Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi has challenged his players to channel the pressure surrounding their relegation fight into motivation as the club battles to remain in the Premier League.
Tottenham currently sit just two points above West Ham United in the final relegation spot heading into the final stretch of the campaign. With only two matches left to play, Tottenham know that two more points would guarantee their survival in the top flight.
MATCHDAY 👊
🆚 Chelsea
🏟️ Stamford Bridge
🏆 @PremierLeague
⏰ 8.15pm BST pic.twitter.com/X2ydIcQbod— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) May 19, 2026
One point could also prove enough due to Tottenham’s significantly better goal difference compared to their relegation rivals. However, De Zerbi is determined to ensure his side approach the remaining fixtures with maximum intensity.
Tottenham face London rivals Chelsea on Tuesday in what could be one of the defining matches of their season. The Italian manager acknowledged that his players are likely to face hostile chants and taunts from opposing supporters because of the club’s difficult campaign.
Speaking ahead of the clash, De Zerbi insisted that the negativity surrounding Spurs should serve as fuel for the squad rather than become a burden on their shoulders. “We have to find new motivation from this pressure,” De Zerbi told reporters. “If everyone wants Tottenham relegated, it’s a big motivation for me, and I hope for my players as well.”
The former Brighton coach also highlighted the emotional significance of the rivalry with Chelsea, saying football’s competitive nature should inspire Spurs to fight harder for survival. He added that imagining celebrations at Stamford Bridge should provide the team with extra determination.
Tottenham will conclude their season with a home fixture against Everton, while West Ham still have one game remaining against Leeds United.
With survival still not mathematically secured, De Zerbi is hoping pride and pressure can push Spurs over the line in their battle to stay in the Premier League.
