October 19
Will results improve?
Roberto De Zerbi, the manager, has imposed a ban on the use of mobile phones during breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the team’s training camp in Marbella, Spain. The move is an attempt to foster greater cohesion among the players and improve the performance of the team, which currently sits at the bottom of the Premier League table.
British media reported that the club—which spent over £380 million to bring in 10 new players during the summer—heads into today’s (Monday) match against Coventry without a single win in its first six league games, further increasing the pressure on the coaching staff.
During a press conference, De Zerbi explained that the training camp included both on-pitch work and meetings to discuss the team’s situation and the responsibilities expected of the players. The ban on mobile phones during meals was implemented to allow more time for direct, face-to-face interaction among the group members.
The Italian coach added that they held two or three meetings to discuss football and the current situation. Additionally, specific dinners were organized—some exclusively for the players and others for the coaching staff—with the aim of improving the atmosphere within the squad.
De Zerbi explained that he had organized similar training camps twice during his time at Marseille and found them to be a successful initiative. He noted that the decision was made in consultation with Tottenham’s management, including Vinai Venkatesham, Johan Lange, and the club’s owner.
He emphasized that the goal is not to impose strict restrictions on the players, noting that they have the freedom to move around while in Marbella. The idea is simply to spend more time together away from daily commitments—especially given that the arrival of new players and the return of others from the World Cup meant the team missed out on a full, uninterrupted preparation period.
In the same vein, Tottenham welcomed back Dejan Kulusevski during the camp, while James Maddison has also returned to training. There is anticipation regarding whether Maddison might feature against his former club, Coventry; De Zerbi confirmed that Maddison is fit to play, though he has not yet decided whether he will be in the starting lineup.
Meanwhile, Xavi Simons remains sidelined due to injury. The coach indicated that he is closely monitoring the player’s recovery, stressing the importance of giving those returning from injury sufficient time to regain full fitness—while noting that some may still be able to contribute, even if only for short spells on the pitch.
