Tottenham close in on Roberto De Zerbi appointment as relegation battle intensifies
Tottenham Hotspur are edging closer to confirming Roberto De Zerbi as their new head coach, with negotiations understood to have progressed late into Monday night, March 30, 2026, and continued into Tuesday, March 31, 2026.
Multiple reports from international media outlets indicate that the former Brighton & Hove Albion manager has been offered a long-term contract that could keep him at the North London club for as long as five years. Club insiders believe the Italian tactician is the preferred candidate across both the boardroom and ownership level, with senior figures convinced he possesses the qualities needed to quickly transform the team’s fortunes.
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According to Fabrizio Romano, an Italian sports writer who focuses on transfer news, an agreement in principle has already been reached, clearing the way for an official announcement in the coming days.
BBC Sports has also confirmed the news about De Zerbi nearing his return to EPL football.
Spurs turn to De Zerbi amid relegation fears
De Zerbi is expected to take charge at a crucial moment for Tottenham, who currently sit just above the relegation zone in the Premier League standings. With only seven matches remaining, the club faces mounting pressure to secure enough points to maintain their top-flight status.
The decision to move for De Zerbi follows a disappointing spell under Igor Tudor, whose brief 44-day tenure failed to produce a single league victory. That run of poor form left Spurs struggling near the bottom of the table despite having lifted the UEFA Europa League title last season.
Should the appointment be finalised, De Zerbi would become Tottenham’s third head coach of the campaign, underlining the club’s urgency to reverse their slide.
If confirmed in time, De Zerbi’s first assignment in charge is expected to be a challenging away fixture against Sunderland on Sunday, April 12, 2026. The match could serve as an early test of his ability to organise the squad and inject confidence into a side that has struggled for consistency.
Tottenham’s leadership believes De Zerbi’s attacking philosophy and tactical approach, widely praised during his time in England, could provide the spark needed to revive the team’s season.
Long-term vision
While the proposed five-year deal signals a commitment to long-term planning, De Zerbi’s immediate focus will be survival. Avoiding relegation remains the top priority, with each remaining match carrying significant weight.
