AliousNew Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi has already been handed an early setback, with midfielder Pape Matar Sarr missing Senegal’s friendly against Gambia through injury.
Injury concerns mount at Spurs
Sarr is the latest addition to Tottenham’s growing list of fitness problems. De Zerbi, who was officially appointed on Tuesday on a five-year contract without a relegation release clause, takes charge with the club sitting just one point above the Premier League relegation zone.
With only seven matches remaining and no league victory recorded in 2026, the Italian has little time to turn things around. However, he must do so while dealing with a squad already hit hard by injuries at Hotspur Way.
Sarr had linked up with Senegal and featured in their 2-0 win over Peru, but reports from Senegalese media confirmed he was left out against Gambia due to a shoulder issue. Any absence would be a major concern for De Zerbi, given the number of players already sidelined, including Guglielmo Vicario, Ben Davies, Rodrigo Bentancur, James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski, Wilson Odobert, Mathys Tel and Mohammed Kudus.
Sarr has made 22 Premier League appearances this season, and with midfield options already stretched thin, his potential absence comes at a difficult time ahead of Tottenham’s trip to Sunderland.
Although Sunderland had gone unbeaten at home for much of the campaign, they have recently suffered three consecutive defeats at the Stadium of Light, offering Spurs a possible opportunity.
Transfer concerns already emerging
While avoiding relegation remains De Zerbi’s immediate priority, planning for the summer is already underway. Reports suggest he has urged the club to strengthen at centre-back and in goal.
The goalkeeping situation proved problematic under Igor Tudor, with Vicario struggling for form before his current injury, while Antonín Kinský endured a brief and difficult spell as first choice.
Now, it appears Vicario’s future lies away from North London. According to reports in Italy, the 29-year-old has agreed to join Inter Milan, with a four-year contract worth €3.5 million per year already in place. The two clubs are said to be negotiating the final transfer fee.
Vicario has made 117 appearances for Tottenham, conceding 170 goals and registering 29 clean sheets during his time at the club.
Alious
