Every word Roberto De Zerbi said on big transfer news, Maddison injury and Williams-Barnett
Tottenham Hotspur head coach Roberto De Zerbi provided updates on his squad following a successful pre-season outing in New Zealand. The team secured a 2-0 victory against Auckland FC before a record-breaking crowd of over 40,000 spectators. Dane Scarlett and Richarlison scored the goals, while younger members of the academy squad saw significant playing time alongside first-team regulars.
Addressing injury concerns, De Zerbi confirmed that James Maddison and Iyenoma Udogie have been sidelined for the past five days. He clarified that these are not major issues, but rather precautionary measures to avoid unnecessary risk during the early stages of the pre-season schedule. The focus remains on physical conditioning and integrating new arrivals into the system as the team travels to Australia for their next friendly.
De Zerbi emphasized the importance of academy development, highlighting the potential of 17-year-old Luca Williams-Barnett. The manager noted that internal growth is vital for meeting squad regulations, including Financial Fair Play and European competition requirements. He also praised Archie Gray for his professional maturity despite his young age, noting that he evaluates players based on their individual qualities and potential rather than their age profile.
Looking ahead to the remainder of the transfer window, De Zerbi shared that he has engaged in productive discussions with the club owners and the board. He expressed optimism regarding their stated objective to strengthen the team for the upcoming season while laying a foundation for future success. The manager stated that he expects the club to make further moves before the market closes to ensure the squad is prepared for the challenges ahead.
Despite the demanding travel schedule and jet lag, the team remains focused on their preparation. De Zerbi expressed gratitude for the warm reception in New Zealand and stressed that the club values its international fanbase. As the squad prepares for the next leg of their tour, the primary goal remains to avoid injuries and build the tactical knowledge required to perform at the highest level throughout the year.