Tottenham’s appointment of Roberto De Zerbi has come with many moral controversies. However, it’s not denying that the Italian is seen as one of the best coaches in the world in terms of tactics and playing style.
Historically, Tottenham are known for their attractive, possession-based, and attacking playing style. They have, however, drifted from it in recent years, except under Ange Postecoglou. They are now hoping to return to it under De Zerbi, who is known for an exciting playing style.
The Italian has garnered praise from some of the top coaches and players over the years, including the current Wales boss.
Craig Bellamy says he will visit De Zerbi at Tottenham
Craig Bellamy recently saw his Wales side fail to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. They lost on penalties against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Qualifiers semi-finals.
In a recent press conference, Bellamy spoke about learning and becoming better to help his side. He added that he would visit De Zerbi, saying (h/t BBC Sport):
“De Zerbi has just gone into Spurs, which is brilliant. I might go and spend two weeks with him in a couple of weeks’ time, so you can print that. One of our coaches (Andrew Crofts) is one of his top mates, and he, so I’ve got a route. Yeah.”
“Keep learning, keep going, I see people. How can I get better? You know, how can I get this group to stay in group A [in Nations League]? How can I make sure we’re not going to the playoffs anymore? That’s, um.. That’s my… aim.”
Bellamy was appointed Wales’ manager in 2024 and has made eight wins, five draws, and five defeats in 18 games. He’s previously served as Vincent Kompany’s assistant coach at Anderlecht and Burnley.
De Zerbi needs to implement his ideas quickly at Tottenham
The Italian head coach is known for playing possession-based football, which is based on baiting the opposition and playing through them to create attacks. Pep Guardiola called De Zerbi’s playing style “unique” in 2023.
Also Read: ‘Takes time’ – Neal Maupay sends warning to Tottenham after Roberto De Zerbi arrival
However, the 46-year-old doesn’t have a lot of time to implement these ideas at Tottenham. While he has signed a five-year deal, his primary task is to avoid relegation. They sit just a point above 18th-placed West Ham with seven games remaining.
De Zerbi will get around 10 days before his first match against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on April 12. Hence, he will need to get his ideas across to the players quickly to get results in their upcoming games.
