AliousRoberto De Zerbi is set to take charge at Tottenham Hotspur after reaching a full agreement in principle, with the deal now entering its final stages. Multiple sources close to the negotiations indicate that the Italian has accepted the role immediately, rather than waiting until the end of the season, as Spurs scramble to avoid relegation from the Premier League.
The north London club confirmed the departure of Igor Tudor on Sunday, bringing an abrupt end to his short and turbulent spell. Tottenham’s hierarchy moved quickly, identifying De Zerbi as their top target due to his progressive tactical philosophy and proven ability to develop teams under pressure—most notably during his time at Brighton & Hove Albion, where he earned widespread praise for his attacking style and data-driven approach.
Although Mauricio Pochettino was also admired internally and retains strong emotional ties with Spurs fans, any potential return was ruled out due to his current commitment to the United States men’s national soccer team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This effectively cleared the path for De Zerbi, who had previously been cautious about taking over a club in a relegation battle mid-season.
However, Tottenham’s offer proved too significant to turn down. Reports suggest the club structured a highly lucrative package to secure his services, including a substantial “survival bonus” if he successfully keeps Spurs in the top flight. In addition, De Zerbi has been offered a long-term five-year contract—an indication of the club’s desire for stability after a period of managerial upheaval.
Financially, the deal places De Zerbi among the elite earners in English football management. His salary is expected to rank just below Pep Guardiola and Mikel Arteta, whose earnings at Arsenal are reported to be around £15 million per year. That would see De Zerbi surpass the likes of Arne Slot at Liverpool, underlining just how aggressively Spurs have pursued their man.
There are still minor contractual details to resolve, particularly regarding wage adjustments in the event of relegation. It is understood that the agreement will include clauses reducing his salary should Tottenham drop into the Championship, though the Italian is believed to be open to remaining with the club to oversee an immediate rebuild if that scenario unfolds.
From a footballing perspective, De Zerbi’s appointment signals a clear stylistic shift. Known for his emphasis on possession-based build-up, high pressing, and positional play, he is expected to overhaul Spurs’ current approach quickly. His previous work—both in England and in Europe—has shown an ability to improve underperforming squads, something Tottenham will desperately need in the final stretch of the season.
With the club hovering dangerously close to the relegation zone, the timing of the appointment reflects both urgency and ambition. Spurs are gambling on De Zerbi not only to secure survival but also to lay the foundation for a longer-term revival after one of the most unstable campaigns in their recent history.
Alious
