Chris Sutton has criticised Roberto De Zerbi over Tottenham’s poor start to the season, arguing that the manager must accept responsibility for a series of disappointing performances.
Writing for BBC Sport, the former Premier League player questioned De Zerbi’s approach after Tottenham were held to a 0-0 draw by Nottingham Forest. Sutton said the Italian had appeared to shift blame towards his forwards rather than examining his own decisions.
Chris Sutton calls for greater responsibility from De Zerbi
“This is absolutely massive for Tottenham boss Roberto De Zerbi. First and foremost, though, he needs to take a bit of responsibility for his side’s poor results,” Sutton said on BBC Sport Live.
He added: “He blamed the Spurs strikers after their 0-0 draw with Nottingham Forest, but at least he has got some in his squad. Spurs are a ‘law of averages’ team, or at least that’s the way I see it.
“Eventually they have to score and eventually they have to win too, but I don’t see both things happening this weekend.”
Sutton’s comments come after Tottenham invested heavily during the summer transfer window, with the club’s hierarchy backing De Zerbi as he reshaped the squad.
Spurs broke their transfer record twice to sign midfielders Sandro Tonali from Newcastle for £100 million and Mateus Fernandes from West Ham for £85 million. The club also brought in Brazilian winger Savio from Manchester City and Omar Marmoush to strengthen the attack.
Defensive additions Jan Paul van Hecke, Marcos Senesi and veteran full-back Andy Robertson completed a major overhaul, but Tottenham’s expensive new arrivals have yet to make a significant impact in the Premier League.
The tactical changes have so far produced disjointed displays, with Spurs struggling to create fluid attacking football and turn possession into goals. De Zerbi now faces pressure to integrate his new signings quickly and deliver results.
