Roberto De Zerbi Pledges Allegiance to Tottenham Amidst Relegation Fights

Roberto De Zerbi faces criticism from Tottenham fans 

Roberto De Zerbi confirms he'll stay at Tottenham next season, even if relegated, citing “biggest challenge” of his career. Tottenham fans question Roberto De Zerbi's support for Mason Greenwood during his Marseille tenure amid abuse allegations.

De Zerbi's past backing of Greenwood sparks controversy among Spurs supporters...

Roberto De Zerbi has committed to staying at Tottenham Hotspur next season, regardless of whether they get relegated from the Premier League or not. The Italian manager signed a five-year deal and considers this role the biggest challenge of his career.

De Zerbi took over from Igor Tudor, who left the club after just seven games in charge. Spurs are currently 17th in the Premier League table, just one point above the relegation zone with seven games left to play.

Roberto De Zerbi has taken on the challenge of saving Tottenham from relegation with just seven games left to play. The Italian coach was reportedly hesitant to join Spurs mid-season, but a lucrative five-year deal worth around £12-15 million per year changed his mind, making him one of the highest-paid coaches in the Premier League.

De Zerbi has dismissed suggestions that his contract includes a relegation clause, which would have allowed him to leave if Spurs were relegated. Instead, he's committed to staying with the club, even if they drop to the Championship. This move has been seen as a gamble, given Tottenham's current situation, one point above the relegation zone.

“I signed five years of (a) contract because for me it is a big challenge,” De Zerbi told an interview with the club's in-house media channel.

“I will be the coach of Tottenham next season no matter what.

“Tottenham, especially in this moment, is maybe the most important challenge in my career. I'm ready to start this challenge.”

Welcome to Tottenham Hotspur, Roberto De Zerbi 🤝 pic.twitter.com/H7qvtoMkkj

— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) April 1, 2026

 

De Zerbi built a solid rep in England during his two years at Brighton (2022-2024), earning praise for his attacking style and ability to punch above his weight. He then took the helm at Marseille, where he started strong - leading them to a Ligue 1 runners-up spot and Champions League qualification last season.

De Zerbi's Marseille stint ended abruptly in February, with the team crashing out of the Champions League and suffering a 5-0 thrashing by PSG. Now, his appointment at Tottenham hasn't exactly thrilled all Spurs fans, with some questioning his ability to turn things around.

Some Spurs fans aren't happy about De Zerbi's past support for Mason Greenwood, who joined Marseille in July 2023 after allegations of attempted rape and sexual assault were dropped. De Zerbi had backed Greenwood during his time at Marseille, sparking controversy among fans.

Roberto De Zerbi’s first interview as Tottenham Hotspur Head Coach 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/PJRwccK1Y7

— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) April 2, 2026

Greenwood, a former England international, was suspended by Manchester United in January 2022, but charges were dropped in February 2023 and he moved to Marseille. 

“I've never wanted to downplay the issue of violence against women or violence against anyone in general,” De Zerbi added, speaking in his native Italian.

“Those who know me well know that I'm not the kind of person who compromises to win one more match, or to win one more title.

“I'm sorry if I've offended anyone with this topic. I have a daughter and I'm very sensitive to these things. I hope that as time passes, people will get to know me better and understand that I didn't mean to take a stance.”