BBC Sport columnist Tony Pulis argues that Tottenham’s new boss Roberto de Zerbi must use the international break to mould his squad. Time with the players is crucial before the Premier League kicks off.
Who: Roberto de Zerbi, Tottenham Hotspur manager; What: needs sufficient time with his squad to forge a cohesive unit; When: after the international break in mid‑September 2026; Where: at the Tottenham training ground.
De Zerbi, appointed in July 2026, is one of the most talked‑about Italian coaches to take charge of a Premier League side. While his Serie A pedigree is solid, he now confronts a different set of challenges: integrating new signings, coping with recurring injuries, and handling intense fan expectations.
Why the break complicates matters
- Key players are absent due to national team duties.
- A two‑week pause in collective training limits tactical cohesion.
- The 2026/27 schedule sees league fixtures start before the break fully ends.
Statistically, Spurs have lost four of their last six games before the pause, struggling to create clear‑cut chances and conceding 18 defensive errors in that span. The lack of rhythm underscores the need for a focused rebuilding period.
BBC Sport columnist Tony Pulis argues that de Zerbi will use the break to assess his roster, trial alternative formations, and boost morale through one‑to‑one meetings and video analysis. The coaching staff will also run specialised drills to improve ball retention and high‑press intensity.
Ultimately, de Zerbi is expected to commence the season with a well‑defined starting XI, which could translate into a stronger start in the Premier League’s opening ten fixtures.
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