Spurs climb out of the relegation zone
Roberto De Zerbi has quickly improved Tottenham’s position in the Premier League survival fight.
Spurs moved out of the relegation zone after a 2-1 away win over Aston Villa. Since replacing interim boss Igor Tudor, De Zerbi has taken 7 points from his first 4 matches.
Tottenham had not won a league game since December before his arrival. Now, with 3 matches left, they sit one point above 18th-placed West Ham.
Bentancur return strengthens midfield
De Zerbi has dealt with several major injuries, including Mohammed Kudus, Cristian Romero and Xavi Simons.
Rodrigo Bentancur’s return from a serious hamstring injury has been crucial. His energy and movement have given Tottenham more control in midfield.
Spurs struggled physically against Sunderland in De Zerbi’s first match. They looked far better against Brighton, with Bentancur helping the team compete in central areas.
Gallagher gets a bigger role
Conor Gallagher has also become important under De Zerbi.
The Italian coach has backed him after a difficult start at Spurs and placed him near the centre of the survival plan.
Gallagher’s pressing helps Spurs win the ball high up the pitch. He also showed his attacking value against Villa, scoring from the edge of the box.
Defence becomes more stable
Before De Zerbi arrived, Tottenham had conceded 20 goals in 7 matches and had not kept a league clean sheet since New Year’s Day.
The defence still struggled in his first 2 games, but recent signs are stronger. Spurs have allowed only 2 shots on target across their last 2 matches.
Even without Romero, Tottenham have looked more organised against Wolves and Aston Villa. That defensive improvement could be decisive in the final weeks.
