Tottenham are in advanced talks with Roberto De Zerbi as they seek a new head coach to steer them away from imminent relegation danger.
Tottenham Hotspur are moving closer to appointing Roberto De Zerbi as their new head coach, with talks now at an advanced stage. The Italian, previously hesitant, is now open to taking the role immediately. Spurs are pushing to finalise a deal quickly as they battle to avoid relegation from the Premier League.
The situation accelerated following the departure of Igor Tudor, who left by mutual consent after just 44 days in charge. Tottenham had initially planned to appoint a permanent manager in the summer. However, poor results forced a rethink and fast-tracked their pursuit of De Zerbi.
Discussions between both parties have been described as positive. Spurs are believed to have offered the 46-year-old a long-term contract, underlining their desire for some semblance of stability. De Zerbi has been out of work since leaving Marseille in February, making him an available and attractive option.
Tottenham’s league form has been alarming. They sit 17th in the Premier League, just one point above the relegation zone. Even more concerning, they have not won a league match in 2026.
Tudor’s short tenure yielded just one victory in seven games. That run included a damaging 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest, which ultimately sealed his fate. The club hierarchy, led by Vinai Venkatesham and Johan Lange, are now under pressure to get this appointment right.
De Zerbi’s attacking philosophy is a major attraction. His Brighton side previously impressed with fluid, possession-based football, achieving a sixth-place finish in the Premier League. Spurs believe his style aligns with the club’s traditional identity.
However, there are concerns about timing. De Zerbi’s methods often require time to implement, something Tottenham do not have with just seven games remaining. His past mid-season appointments have also been slow to produce results, raising questions about immediate impact.
There is also off-field controversy. Some Spurs supporter groups have voiced opposition due to De Zerbi’s past comments defending Mason Greenwood during their time at Marseille after the former Manchester United forward was charged with attempted rape, controlling and coercive behavior and assault, charges that were later dropped. This has added another layer of complexity to the potential appointment.
The key turning point in this saga came after Tottenham’s heavy defeat to Forest. That result intensified the urgency for change amongst the leadership at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and focus shifted to De Zerbi. What was once a summer possibility has now become an immediate priority.
Another crucial factor is Spurs’ lack of alternatives. Mauricio Pochettino remains tied to international duties until, at least, after the 2026 World Cup this summer, while short-term options like Sean Dyche present contractual challenges. This has made De Zerbi the leading candidate.
His Premier League experience also stands out. Unlike some other options, he understands the demands of the league. That could prove vital in a high-pressure relegation battle.
Tottenham are hopeful of finalising the appointment before their next fixture against Sunderland on April 12. Time is of the essence, with only seven matches left to secure survival. The remaining schedule includes games against Brighton, Wolves, Aston Villa, Leeds, Chelsea, and Everton. Every point will be critical as Spurs fight to stay above the drop zone.
If De Zerbi agrees to take charge now, it will represent a significant gamble that could make or dent his career. Yet for Tottenham, it may be the bold move needed to salvage their season.
