Roberto De Zerbi has admitted he cannot yet confirm whether James Maddison will feature for Tottenham at any point before the Premier League season ends, as the club continues to grapple with a crippling injury list.
Maddison has not played a competitive match since suffering an ACL injury during Spurs’ pre-season tour of Asia last August. The midfielder’s last appearance came exactly a year ago in the first leg of the Europa League semi-final against Bodo Glimt. Although he has been named on the bench for Tottenham’s previous two fixtures, De Zerbi insists his return to action is far from guaranteed.
Ordinarily, Maddison would not be rushed back. But with Xavi Simons now ruled out for the remainder of the season after picking up a major injury against Wolves, De Zerbi faces a difficult decision over whether to risk one of his side’s most influential creative players.
Speaking ahead of Spurs’ upcoming matches against Aston Villa and Leeds, the head coach stressed that while Maddison has trained “very well”, his physical readiness remains uncertain.
“I don’t know. I would like to play him because he’s a special, different player,” De Zerbi said. “But we have to consider his physical condition and many other factors. I think he can be important in the next three games.”
De Zerbi Warns Against Risks After Kudus Setback
De Zerbi acknowledged that he is wary of pushing Maddison too soon, referencing Mohammed Kudus’s recent setback after returning prematurely from a quad injury. Spurs cannot afford a similar situation in the midst of their relegation battle.
Even if Maddison is unable to contribute on the pitch immediately, the Tottenham boss emphasised the value the midfielder brings through his leadership and presence within the squad.
Asked what Maddison has added since returning to matchday involvement, De Zerbi highlighted his experience, calmness, and timing in communication—qualities he believes are essential in high-pressure moments.
“I want him inside, even if he doesn’t play,” De Zerbi added. “Because when he is ready to play, I need him 100 per cent in tune with the team’s plan.”
With four games remaining and Tottenham desperately seeking points, the spotlight now turns to whether Maddison can provide the creative spark Spurs have been missing since Simons’ injury.
