Tottenham Hotspur’s new manager Roberto De Zerbi said the club’s goal drought will not be fixed overnight, after Spurs failed to score in their first three Premier League matches. Speaking in the wake of another low-return start to the season, De Zerbi argued that building a coherent team from an expensive, newly assembled squad takes
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did De Zerbi say Tottenham’s goal drought won’t be fixed overnight?
Because the squad has been newly assembled and expensive changes don’t automatically translate into immediate scoring. De Zerbi suggested the team needs time to develop coherence—understanding patterns, roles, and timing—so chances become consistent rather than occasional. He implied that short-term results are less important than building the framework that allows goals to come.
How much time does De Zerbi believe Spurs need to get their attack working?
De Zerbi’s message points to a process rather than a quick fix. While he didn’t provide a specific timeline in the excerpt, the key point is that team cohesion, tactical clarity, and player chemistry take weeks, not days. The “not overnight” wording indicates he expects gradual improvement as the Premier League run continues.
Is the problem with Spurs more tactical or more about the players adapting?
Based on De Zerbi’s comments, it sounds like both, but with a strong emphasis on adaptation. Even talented signings can underperform when roles and patterns aren’t fully synchronized. He framed the issue as building a coherent team from a newly assembled squad, which suggests the players need time to understand the plan and execute it consistently.
What would a ‘coherent team’ look like for Tottenham under De Zerbi?
A coherent team typically means predictable attacking structure, clear decision-making in the final third, and coordinated pressing or buildup. De Zerbi’s stance implies Spurs need to connect phases of play—how they win the ball, progress, and create chances—so scoring opportunities don’t rely on random moments.
Does failing to score in the first three Premier League matches mean the season is already over?
De Zerbi’s wording suggests he doesn’t view early blank results as proof of a permanent failure. Instead, he treats it as a sign that the squad is still gelling and the system needs time. Early-season struggles can reflect adjustment periods, so his message is essentially about patience and continued development.
What should Spurs fans expect next if the team is still ‘building’?
Fans should expect effort and structure to improve even before goals arrive regularly. De Zerbi’s comments indicate he prioritizes longer-term team coherence, meaning performances may become more convincing over time as players learn the style and improve their timing. The likely expectation is incremental progress rather than an immediate scoring turnaround.