Roberto De Zerbi did his pre-match press conference earlier today to preview Tottenham’s crucial Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest at the City Ground.
The Italian provided an injury update on his squad and also addressed the speculation surrounding Richarlison’s future as he continues to be linked with a move to Trabzonspor.
The Brazilian was left out of Tottenham’s Premier League squad, so it appears likely that he will leave in the coming days.
Another player who wanted to leave in the early part of the summer was Lucas Bergvall, although he opted to remain at the club.
And De Zerbi feels the Swedish midfielder changed his mind during pre-season amid interest from Nottingham Forest, Newcastle United, Chelsea and Sunderland, among others.
De Zerbi on Bergvall’s decision to stay at Tottenham
When asked if Richarlison’s situation is similar to that of what happened with Bergvall, De Zerbi passionately explained what led to a change of heart for the Swede.
“After 10 days in the pre-season, Lucas came and his agent as well went to Johan Lange to say, ‘Lucas is happy to stay,’ and Lucas showed me he wanted to stay.
“I would like to play with him, I would like to put the focus on him because he is another big, big in terms of the potential of the player. He is another big player.”
De Zerbi clearly holds the young midfielder in high regard, so his decision to stay is a massive boost for Tottenham.
