‘I love possession’ – Roberto De Zerbi reveals why his Tottenham principles may take time

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Roberto De Zerbi outlined his vision at Tottenham Hotspur, including his footballing philosophy and what he expects from his players.

Tottenham Hotspur’s new boss – Roberto De Zerbi – has addressed fans in greater detail for the first time since his appointment, providing answers to a couple of big questions.

The former Brighton manager has reassured that, regardless of results, he will remain Tottenham manager next season – even if the club are playing in the Championship.

De Zerbi also offered an apology regarding his comments on Mason Greenwood, clarifying that he did not mean to take a stance after there had been a reasonable backlash from Tottenham fans.

Tottenham’s Roberto De Zerbi explains style of play ahead of Premier League run-in

The new Spurs boss has now provided more clarity on his tactical approach. There have been a few reservations about his expansive style of play, with pundits questioning whether that is what is needed at Tottenham right now.

Tim Sherwood claimed a safe pair of hands would have been the way to go, while William Gallas believed that Harry Redknapp would have been the better pick at this stage of the season.

Addressing his style of play and tactical approach during the Premier League run-in, De Zerbi told official Tottenham media: “I love keeping the ball, I love possession, I love to create chances to score.

“But at the same time, I love having 11 defenders when we do not have the ball, because in this time of football, we have to attack with 11 players, with the goalkeeper as well. We have to defend with 11 players when the ball is not for us.

“I think in this moment, we have no time to work too much on more principles, but we have to know what we have to do on the pitch. We have to have a good organisation on the pitch, with the ball, without the ball. We have to consider the qualities of the players.

“We are lucky, I am lucky because I have big players with big talent and my work is to help the players to show their qualities.”

Neal Maupay already made it clear to Tottenham fans that they are getting a manager who breathes football.

The Italian has now made it clear that those comments were true. Speaking about his deep connection to the game and what football means to him, De Zerbi told official Tottenham media:

“Many times, I have said that football is my life and my life is football, but it is true because football is my work. I respect football because football gave me everything. And for me, it is not real work, it is a passion. If I stay at home, I watch football. If I work, I watch football and nothing changes. Stay at home or to be a coach.

“For me, Tottenham, especially in this moment, is maybe the most important challenge in my career. I am ready to start this challenge and I want to work with my characteristics, with my passion, with my vision of football and with my knowledge as well.