AliousRoberto De Zerbi has laid out an ambitious blueprint to unlock the full potential of Tottenham’s high-profile duo, Conor Gallagher and Xavi Simons, as he looks to steer the club away from relegation danger.Having recently taken charge at Tottenham Hotspur, De Zerbi inherits a struggling side stuck in the Premier League’s bottom three and still searching for their first win of 2026. With just a handful of games remaining, the Italian knows he must quickly ignite his key players—starting with a crucial clash against Sunderland.Central to his plans are two big-money signings who have yet to fully deliver. Gallagher, who joined from Atlético Madrid for £35 million after rejecting interest from Aston Villa, has found life difficult in north London so far. Meanwhile, Simons—signed from RB Leipzig for £51 million—has shown flashes of brilliance, creating more chances than any Spurs player, but has struggled for consistent opportunities under previous managers.De Zerbi, however, is confident he can transform both players by focusing on two key elements: tactical positioning and mental strength. He emphasized the importance of placing players in roles where they feel most comfortable and can naturally express themselves on the pitch, while also rebuilding their confidence and mindset.For Gallagher, the challenge is as much psychological as tactical. Once a leader at Chelsea, the midfielder is now adjusting to a completely new environment after spells in Spain and England. De Zerbi is determined to restore the dynamic, influential version of Gallagher that once thrived in blue.Simons, on the other hand, has already impressed with his creativity, and De Zerbi clearly sees him as a “big talent” ready to flourish with the right guidance and consistent role in the team.Beyond individuals, De Zerbi also wants a broader shift in Spurs’ identity. His philosophy prioritizes possession, attacking intent, and bravery—encouraging players to focus less on fear of conceding and more on creating chances and winning matches. It’s a bold approach, but one he believes aligns with the club’s DNA.With survival on the line, De Zerbi’s ability to revive Gallagher and Simons could be the difference between relegation and a dramatic escape.
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