Tottenham Hotspur Roberto De Zerbi has told fans that he does not consider himself better than his predecessors Thomas Frank and Igor Tudor, as he prepares for his first match in charge of the struggling Premier League side.
De Zerbi, who was appointed on March 31, takes over a Tottenham team battling to avoid relegation with only a few games left in the season.
The Italian becomes the club’s third manager of the campaign after Frank and Tudor, with the latter lasting just 44 days in the role.
As reported by BBC Sport, speaking ahead of his debut match against Sunderland on Friday, De Zerbi struck a humble tone and stressed respect for those who previously held the job.
“I am not better than Frank or Tudor because I consider them very good coaches,” he said, adding, “I just try to bring my style, my character, and my personality to achieve our target.”
Tottenham’s form has been poor, with the club failing to win a league match in 2026 and struggling for consistency throughout the season.
Their difficult run has left them dangerously close to the relegation zone, increasing pressure on the new manager to deliver immediate results.
Despite the challenge, De Zerbi expressed confidence in the squad and gratitude for the opportunity to lead the club.
“For me, it is a big opportunity because Tottenham are a very important club in the Premier League.
“I am proud and happy to be here, and I thank the club for their trust,” he said.
He also called for unity between players and supporters, urging the team to respond with commitment and discipline on the pitch.
“The fans are suffering like us, but for them there is only one club,” he added. “We have to make them happy with the right spirit and behaviour.”
Tottenham now face a crucial run of fixtures as they attempt to secure their Premier League status, starting with De Zerbi’s first game in charge against Sunderland.
