Roberto De Zerbi has his work cut out for him at Tottenham as he aims to steer the club away from the Premier League relegation zone.
The Lilywhites are just a point above 18th-placed West Ham United and are winless in the Premier League in 2026, which has emerged as a cause for concern.
The Italian didn’t give an official press conference immediately after his unveiling, instead opting to do a short interview with Tottenham’s official channels.
However, ahead of the Premier League clash against Sunderland on Sunday, he sat down in front of the media for the first time as Tottenham boss.
A lot of his comments immediately stood out, but none more than his admiration for Conor Gallagher.
De Zerbi lauds Conor Gallagher
Gallagher signed for Tottenham in the January transfer window as he returned to the Premier League from Atletico Madrid.
Since arriving back in England, he hasn’t really found his feet and has struggled for form, much like the rest of his teammates.
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De Zerbi challenged Gallagher to show the form he did at Chelsea, which eventually earned him a move to Atletico Madrid after a string of magnificent displays under Mauricio Pochettino.
“In the last period I watched a lot of games, especially of Tottenham,” said De Zerbi.
“One thing is to watch the game at home and a different thing is to work with them on the pitch.
“We have very big players, young players Bergvall, Archie Gray, Mathys Tel, Xavi Simons, but in a way we have older players that are important like Van de Ven.
“Van de Ven is a crucial player for me, like Romero, like Porro, like Solanke. I want to see again the same Gallagher I loved at Chelsea time. And I think I am lucky because I have a big confidence in my players and their qualities.
“For me, my target is to help them to play well and to enjoy playing with the ball because their characteristics are very clear.”
Gallagher’s experience could be vital
Granted, Gallagher’s profile wasn’t what Tottenham needed in January, as he is more of a runner and a workhorse.
However, the 26-year-old is a reliable midfielder and has shown during his stints with Chelsea, Crystal Palace and Atletico Madrid that he has the work ethic to be a vital cog of a functioning team.
Tottenham could really use Gallagher’s quality in the coming weeks, as you know what you’re going to get with him. Archie Gray is a shoo-in for a spot in midfield, while Lucas Bergvall is expected to be stationed as a No.10 in a 4-3-2-1.
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The remaining spot in midfield is up for grabs, with Gallagher, Joao Palhinha and Pape Sarr competing for a place in the starting XI.
And judging by De Zerbi’s admiration for Gallagher, don’t be surprised if he starts against Sunderland.
