Roberto De Zerbi has expressed confidence in his ability to rescue Tottenham Hotspur from relegation in the English Premier League, as he prepares to take charge of his first match against Sunderland on Sunday.
The former Marseille coach has been appointed to prevent the struggling North London side from dropping to the second division for the first time since the 1977–78 season.
Tottenham are currently just one point above the relegation zone with seven matches remaining in the season.
De Zerbi takes over from interim manager Igor Tudor, who was dismissed during the recent international break after failing to secure a win in five league games.
Despite Tottenham’s poor form, having not recorded a league victory in 2026, De Zerbi remains optimistic about their survival chances.
“Yes. I’m sure about the level of the players because many players in the past I was close to bringing them to my former teams,” he told reporters on Friday.
“The voice inside the pitch is changing. Now I’m more positive for sure.”
The club’s struggles have been evident, with a run of 13 league games without a win, including a 3-0 defeat at home to Nottingham Forest in their last outing before Tudor’s departure.
Addressing his decision to take on the challenge, De Zerbi said it presented a significant opportunity.
“Why now? Because it depends on the angle at which you look at the situation. For me, it was a big opportunity because Tottenham are a very important club in the Premier League and the Premier League is the best league in the world,” he said.
“The message for my staff and players, we have to deserve their support because the fans are suffering like us.
“The players can change, but for the fans it’s unique, (it’s) their club. We have to make them happy with the right spirit and the right behaviour on the pitch. Then it’s easier to make points.”
De Zerbi previously managed in the Premier League with Brighton and had a mixed spell at Marseille before leaving the club in February.
He becomes Tottenham’s third manager this season, following Thomas Frank, who was sacked in his first season after replacing Ange Postecoglou.
The Italian coach also stated that he is prepared to remain with the club even if they are relegated.
“If I sign my contract in April, I have to be ready to stay no matter what next season.
“I am not better than Thomas Frank or Igor Tudor. I try to bring my style and myself, my character, my personality, and my strengths. In my plan for sure, the idea is to stay for a long time.
“I’m not speaking about titles, but to put Tottenham in a position in the Premier League because they are all parts to reach that level.”