Roberto De Zerbi
Tottenham Hotspur head coach Roberto De Zerbi has provided significant updates on his squad as they prepare for a pivotal Premier League match against Leeds United. With pressing concerns over player fitness and future plans, De Zerbi has addressed the situations surrounding goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, Swedish star Dejan Kulusevski, and midfielder James Maddison.
Roberto De Zerbi said: “Vicario is still the first goalkeeper of Tottenham, because what Vicario showed this season is enough to consider him a top player for us. But we have to consider the physical condition, the period – how many games he missed and we will see when Vicario will be good.” He added, “Big character, big personality. Great guy, great professional, and great goalkeeper. He’s playing very well, he has to stay with the focus and don’t take risks in any situation, but he is playing very well and is very important for us now.”
De Zerbi’s comments highlight the ongoing reliance on Vicario as the club’s primary goalkeeper despite his current absence from training. In his stead, Antonin Kinsky has stepped up admirably, showcasing resilience and professionalism following a challenging Champions League outing against Atletico Madrid.
Roberto De Zerbi said: “I don’t know. If you ask me if I’ve any ideas about next season, my answer is no. For two reasons, one, I have no time to think about next season, and two, after two wins if I lose time thinking about next season’s squad I am being arrogant.”
De Zerbi’s focus remains firmly on the present, avoiding speculation about the squad’s future composition. This approach underscores the immediate challenges facing Tottenham as they strive for Premier League survival.
Roberto De Zerbi said: “I don’t know the situation well. I hope so but I don’t know his injury and I can’t say nothing more. For me, it’s difficult to understand how he can play at the World Cup if he didn’t play any games this season. But I texted him after [the Villa game].”
Regarding Dejan Kulusevski, De Zerbi expressed uncertainty about the player’s potential participation in the upcoming World Cup. Kulusevski has been sidelined for over a year due to a knee injury, with recent rehabilitation efforts taking place abroad.
Roberto De Zerbi said: “It’s not so easy. Maddison has big experience, I think he knows better than anyone when is the right moment. We have to consider we are fighting for a big target but I think he can be important for us and for that I wanted him to be with the team for Brighton, Wolves and Villa.”
James Maddison’s anticipated return from an anterior cruciate ligament injury remains a topic of consideration. De Zerbi acknowledges the midfielder’s experience and potential impact, yet remains cautious about rushing his return to the pitch.
As Tottenham navigates a challenging period, De Zerbi’s reliance on experienced players like Rodrigo Bentancur and emerging talents such as Lucas Bergvall and Archie Gray reflects a strategic blend of youth and experience. The Italian manager’s tactical decisions aim to steer the club clear of relegation threats while fostering future leadership within the squad.
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