Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur have appointed Roberto De Zerbi as their new manager on a long-term contract, subject to work permit approval.
De Zerbi joins Tottenham as the club’s latest high-profile manager, bringing a reputation for attractive, possession-based play.
Speaking after his appointment, the 46-year-old stated his enthusiasm for joining one of England’s most ambitious clubs.
“I am delighted to be joining this fantastic football club, which is one of the biggest and most prestigious in the world,” Roberto De Zerbi said.
“In all my discussions with the club’s leadership, their ambition for the future has been clear—to build a team capable of reaching great achievements and to do that playing a style of football that excites and inspires our supporters. I am here because I believe in that ambition and have signed a long-term contract to give everything to deliver it.”
He also stated that his immediate focus is on improving Tottenham’s position in the Premier League table.
“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,” he stated. “I’m looking forward to getting out on the training pitch and working with these players to achieve that.”
Tottenham’s Sporting Director, Johan Lange, described De Zerbi as the club’s top target.
“Roberto was our number one target for the summer, and we are very pleased to be able to bring him in now,” Lange said.
“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.”
De Zerbi started his coaching career in Italy and gained prominence for his attacking style during his time at Sassuolo.
He led Shakhtar Donetsk to the Ukrainian Super Cup and guided Brighton & Hove Albion to their highest-ever Premier League finish and first European qualification during his previous spell with the club.
Most recently, he led Marseille to second place in Ligue 1 during the 2024/25 season, securing Champions League qualification for the French club.
The Italian coach is likely to take over immediately and start preparing for the rest of the 2025/26 Premier League season.
