AliousTottenham Hotspur have endured a disastrous season, and unless their form improves quickly, they could soon slip into the Premier League relegation zone.
With a squad already depleted by injuries, the situation is particularly worrying. Head coach Igor Tudor has struggled to make an impact since replacing the under-pressure Thomas Frank. After three games in charge, Spurs have yet to pick up a point or deliver a convincing performance.
Although the club may be reluctant to cause further instability, reports from TEAMtalk suggest the board are already debating whether to dismiss Tudor. One possible replacement mentioned is former Spurs striker Robbie Keane, who has been impressing as manager of Ferencvárosi TC.
However, according to GIVEMESPORT, Roberto De Zerbi sits at the top of Tottenham’s shortlist for a permanent appointment this summer, with Tudor only ever viewed as a temporary solution.
With time running out and relegation becoming a real possibility, sporting director Johan Lange and the club’s ownership group ENIC Group are reportedly considering whether another managerial change is necessary.
Tottenham already weighing up Tudor dismissal
Tottenham’s decision to appoint Tudor was somewhat unexpected. The Croatian coach had limited experience in English football and a reputation for relatively short managerial spells.
If the club decides to part ways with the 47-year-old, they could fast-track their interest in De Zerbi, who has been out of work since leaving Olympique de Marseille earlier in 2026. Despite that setback, he remains one of the most sought-after managers in Europe and has also been linked with jobs at Liverpool F.C. and Manchester United F.C..
Former Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino is also reportedly high on Tottenham’s wishlist. However, he is currently focused on leading the United States men’s national soccer team at the upcoming FIFA World Cup this summer, which could make a reunion difficult. That situation may increase the chances of De Zerbi being brought in sooner rather than later.
Why De Zerbi could be the right choice
De Zerbi would likely have reservations about taking over if Tottenham were relegated to the EFL Championship. Still, his tactical reputation could make him an attractive option for the club.
Like Tudor, De Zerbi is known for having a strong personality, but he is widely regarded as one of the game’s most innovative coaches. While managing Brighton & Hove Albion F.C., his attacking philosophy earned praise from Pep Guardiola, who described his style as “unique.” During his spell in France, he also guided Marseille to a second-place finish in Ligue 1, behind Paris Saint-Germain F.C..
While appointing Keane might appeal to fans due to his history with the club — much like a potential return for Pochettino — De Zerbi offers a more modern, progressive approach and already has experience in English football.
The Irishman would represent a gamble, whereas De Zerbi has proven he can implement a clear tactical identity. Tottenham may only have one more opportunity to make the right managerial call.
The Italian coach is known for his confidence and strong leadership. Even though top Premier League clubs have been linked with him, he might view Tottenham as a chance to rescue a struggling side and build his reputation further before overseeing a major squad rebuild in the summer.
Although he was initially seen as a summer target, De Zerbi is currently available. Bringing him in immediately would involve significant financial costs, especially if Tottenham had to dismiss Tudor. Still, such a move could ultimately benefit the club.
One of Tottenham’s biggest issues this season has been their lack of control in possession. De Zerbi, however, built his reputation in the Premier League on teams that dominate the ball — something Spurs supporters remember fondly from the attacking style seen under Ange Postecoglou during the 2023/24 campaign.
At present, Tudor’s side have finished each of his three matches with less possession than their opponents, highlighting the contrast in playing style.
With options running out, Tottenham must decide quickly. Keane is still early in his coaching career and lacks experience in English management.
De Zerbi, on the other hand, combines a big personality with a sophisticated tactical approach — qualities that could make him exactly the type of leader this struggling club needs.
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