Tottenham Hotspur's manager, Roberto De Zerbi, has clearly articulated his expectations for player dedication, asserting that individuals discontented with their role at the club should seek opportunities elsewhere. This declaration coincides with discussions regarding the future of midfielder Lucas Bergvall. Furthermore, De Zerbi provided insights into the team's current activities in the transfer market, acknowledging recent acquisitions for the midfield and defensive lines, while underscoring the necessity of bolstering the offensive unit. Separately, player Xavi Simons recounted his arduous recovery process following a significant knee injury.
De Zerbi, who took the helm at Spurs in March and played a pivotal role in averting Premier League relegation last season, made these remarks as uncertainty loomed over Lucas Bergvall's tenure. Tottenham recently declined a £38 million offer from Nottingham Forest for the Swedish midfielder, with Forest reportedly preparing an enhanced bid of £45 million. "I made my stance very clear upon my arrival at Tottenham," De Zerbi stated ahead of the pre-season friendly against Auckland FC in New Zealand. "Players who lack contentment or pride in representing Tottenham must depart. I desire a squad composed of individuals who are proud and content to be here, who approach every match at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium with immense drive. In contemporary football, even at the World Cup level, motivation is the decisive factor. This motivation stems from a genuine happiness to be part of a team."
Bergvall, who joined Spurs from Djurgarden in 2024, saw limited playing time under De Zerbi towards the end of the previous season. He featured in the Italian's inaugural match in charge, a 1-0 defeat to Sunderland, and subsequently made four substitute appearances. Since then, Tottenham has secured the services of midfielders Sandro Tonali in a £100 million transfer from Newcastle United and Mateus Fernandes for £85 million from West Ham. De Zerbi clarified his position on Bergvall: "I have yet to speak with Lucas, but I will do so in the coming days. Our goal is to arrive at the most beneficial decision for the club, Lucas, and everyone involved, without complications. Lucas possesses extraordinary talent. There will be intense competition for positions, as I anticipate having two players for each role. Should he choose to remain, I would be delighted. Otherwise, we will collaborate with Sporting Director Johan Lange and Chief Executive Vinai Venkatesham to explore alternative solutions. Once a decision to leave is made, it falls outside my purview."
In addition to midfield reinforcements, Tottenham has brought in defenders Jan Paul van Hecke, Andy Robertson, and Marcos Senesi. De Zerbi indicated that the next objective is to complete the attacking positions. "Our transfer window is far from concluded," he added. "We still need to finalize our squad, likely by adding a couple more players, certainly no less."
While Bergvall is part of the Tottenham contingent in New Zealand, wingers Mohammed Kudus (thigh) and Dejan Kulusevski (knee) did not travel due to ongoing recoveries from long-term injuries. De Zerbi provided an update: "Kudus is nearing full recovery. I expect him to rejoin our training sessions upon our return to London, which is a significant boost for us. Kudus is another vital player. For Kulusevski, we will monitor his progress over the next couple of weeks. He is also a crucial asset. Given that he has been sidelined for an entire season, we must exercise extreme caution to avoid any further risks, first for his well-being, and then for the team."
Separately, Tottenham attacking midfielder Xavi Simons recounted his harrowing experience following an anterior cruciate ligament injury suffered in April. "The initial four days were the most dreadful of my life," he confided to Tottenham's official website. The Netherlands international underwent surgery for the severe knee injury, which also forced him to miss the 2026 World Cup. "I struggled to sleep and lost my appetite for a week," he detailed. "The pain was excruciating; I was vomiting and dizzy. It encompassed everything. I wouldn't wish that level of suffering on anyone. I don't know if other players experience it similarly, but for me, it felt like my entire body was in shock. However, I am now in a positive frame of mind and doing well."
In essence, Tottenham's leadership, under manager Roberto De Zerbi, is prioritizing a committed and motivated squad, actively shaping the team through strategic transfers. The club is reinforcing key positions while managing the recovery of injured players, all with the aim of fostering a cohesive and ambitious unit ready for future challenges. The focus remains on securing players who align with the club's values and are eager to contribute to its success.
