De Zerbi insists he remains confident in Spurs ‘project’ but admits ‘mentality’ challenge

August 29, 2026 - 18:23

Spurs were beaten at St James' Park as goals from Anthony Elanga and Alexander Isak sealed the points for the home side. The result leaves De Zerbi's team in the middle of the Premier League table, and the Italian coach did not hide his frustration when speaking after the match.

Despite the setback, De Zerbi insisted he remains confident in the long-term direction of the club. He said the "project" is still on track, but he acknowledged that the squad needs to show more consistency in their approach to games.

"The quality is there, but we have to show it every week," De Zerbi said. "Against Newcastle, we started well, but we lost control after the first goal. That is not about tactics. That is about mentality."

He pointed to the difference between competing in big moments and simply playing well in spells. De Zerbi stressed that the players must take more responsibility on the pitch, especially when the game becomes difficult.

"We cannot always wait for the coach to change something," he added. "The players on the pitch have to feel the game, read the situation, and react. That is what top teams do."

The defeat was Tottenham's third in their last five league matches, and questions are already being asked about their ability to push for European places. De Zerbi, however, rejected the idea that the season is slipping away.

"I am not worried about the table now," he said. "I am worried about how we respond in the next game. If we show the right attitude, we will get results. I still believe in this squad."

Tottenham will have a chance to bounce back when they host Wolverhampton Wanderers next weekend. De Zerbi said he expects a reaction from his players and confirmed there will be no major changes to the starting lineup unless injuries force them.

"We have to stay calm and work hard," he said. "The fans deserve better, and we owe them a performance."