Appointed: Roberto De Zerbi
Tottenham Hotspurs Football Newsletter
Former Brighton and Marseille manager De Zerbi has signed a five-year contract to replace Igor Tudor, who last week left by mutual consent last week after just seven matches in charge.
De Zerbi, who has previously been a target for Spurs, returns to the Premier League almost two years after an impressive spell with the Seagulls.
It was understood that De Zerbi, who left Marseille in February, wanted to wait until the summer before deciding on his next job, but he has been convinced in talks with Spurs.
The fiery Italian, who prefers an attack-minded style of football, will be tasked with saving Spurs from relegation in the final seven games of the season.
Speaking after signing, De Zerbi set his sights on doing exactly that: “Our short-term priority is to climb the Premier League table, which will be the complete focus until the final whistle of the last game of the season. I’m looking forward to getting out on the training pitch and working with these players to achieve that.”
Spurs currently sit one point above the relegation zone, which is occupied by West Ham, Burnley and Wolves.
A 3-0 home defeat at the hands of relegation rivals Nottingham Forest was a hammering blow to Spurs’ survival hopes.
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De Zerbi’s first game in charge is against Sunderland on April 12, giving him a number of days on the training ground to implement his methods.
His first home game will be the visit of former club Brighton on April 18.
Tottenham sporting director Johan Lange added: “Roberto was our number one target for the summer and we are very pleased to be able to bring him in now.
“He is one of the most creative and forward-thinking coaches in world football, and brings with him a wealth of experience at the highest level, including in the Premier League.”