Tottenham Hotspur have seen tactical shifts since Roberto De Zerbi took over as manager. These changes, partly due to numerous injuries, also reflect De Zerbi’s overall ethos.
De Zerbi Leans on Experienced Players
De Zerbi is favouring more veteran players in the midfield. This move aims to bring more edge to Tottenham’s play as they battle to avoid Premier League relegation, focusing on better defending and experience to navigate their situation.
Lucas Bergvall has been affected by these changes. Despite his talent, Bergvall has been disappointing this season. Since returning from injury, the Swedish prospect has been phased out by De Zerbi in favour of experienced box to box players.
Bentancur’s Improved Form Boosts Tottenham
Rodrigo Bentancur has benefited from De Zerbi’s arrival, returning from a torn hamstring in strong form. He has become more impressive and important to Tottenham’s success this season than he was before his injury, even replacing Archie Gray in the lineup.
De Zerbi needs to find a way to get Gray back involved. However, it is hard to argue that it should come at the expense of Bentancur. The Uruguayan international is playing very well, as if he was never injured.
Bentancur is back to being a key player in the midfield for Tottenham. De Zerbi has unlocked him as a more complete and confident player than he was before.
Gallagher’s Opportunity in Midfield
Conor Gallagher is another player who has received a boost from De Zerbi. While Gallagher makes too much money and has been a deeply disappointing winter signing, lately, the England international has offered signs of hope and quality.
The Xavi Simons injury may change things, but with Simons starting on the left wing in the last two games, Gallagher was actually in that 10 role as more of a defensive 10. And he was pretty good, too, winning possession and even showing significantly more creativity than he did under the previous Tottenham Hotspur managers. So his stock is squarely up under De Zerbi.
The changes implemented by De Zerbi highlight a strategic shift towards experience and tactical flexibility within the Tottenham squad.