Tottenham Hotspur have appointed Roberto De Zerbi as their new head coach on a long-term contract, subject to work permit approval.
The 46-year-old Italian becomes the latest high-profile figure to take charge at the North London club, bringing with him a strong reputation for an attractive, possession-based style of football.
Speaking after his appointment, De Zerbi expressed his enthusiasm about joining Tottenham and outlined his ambitions for the club.
“I am delighted to be joining this fantastic football club, which is one of the biggest and most prestigious in the world,” he said. “In all my discussions with the club’s leadership, their ambition for the future has been clear—to build a team capable of achieving great things while playing a style of football that excites and inspires supporters. I am here because I believe in that vision.”
He added that his immediate priority is to improve the team’s standing in the Premier League table.
“Our short-term focus is to climb the Premier League table, and that will remain our objective until the final game of the season,” De Zerbi stated. “I’m looking forward to working with the players and getting started on the training pitch.”
Tottenham’s Sporting Director, Johan Lange, described De Zerbi as the club’s top managerial target.
“Roberto was our number one choice, and we are very pleased to secure his appointment,” Lange said. “He is one of the most innovative and forward-thinking coaches in world football, with valuable experience at the highest level, including in the Premier League.”
De Zerbi began his managerial career in Italy and rose to prominence with Sassuolo, where his attacking philosophy earned widespread praise. He later guided Shakhtar Donetsk to the Ukrainian Super Cup and achieved notable success with Brighton & Hove Albion, leading them to their highest-ever Premier League finish and first qualification for European competition.
Most recently, he managed Olympique de Marseille, finishing runners-up in Ligue 1 during the 2024/25 season and securing UEFA Champions League qualification.
De Zerbi is expected to assume duties immediately as Tottenham prepare for the remainder of the 2025/26 season.
