Rodrigo Bentancur has revealed how Roberto De Zerbi has completely changed the atmosphere at Tottenham as Spurs continue their fight for Premier League survival.
Tottenham head into Monday night’s massive clash against Leeds United knowing another victory could significantly strengthen their chances of staying in the top flight. After back-to-back league wins lifted Spurs out of the relegation zone, belief is beginning to return around N17.
Supporters are expected to create another electric atmosphere at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium as De Zerbi’s side chase a third straight Premier League win.
One of the key figures behind Tottenham’s recent improvement has been Bentancur. The midfielder has looked revitalised under De Zerbi and played an important role in the impressive 2-1 victory over Aston Villa last weekend.
Speaking ahead of the Leeds encounter, Bentancur first eased concerns over his fitness after appearing exhausted during the Villa game.
The Uruguayan admitted he simply felt fatigued late in the match and did not want to take unnecessary risks, reassuring supporters that there are no injury problems.
Bentancur then explained how both his recovery from injury and De Zerbi’s arrival have transformed the mood within the squad.
According to the midfielder, the Italian coach immediately focused on improving the team’s mentality and bringing positive energy back into the dressing room. He believes recent victories have helped completely shift the feeling around the club.
Bentancur also stated that the players now fully understand the seriousness of Tottenham’s situation and are responding positively to De Zerbi’s demands.
The midfielder added that the renewed confidence is not only visible among the players but throughout the entire club, including supporters at the training ground and inside the stadium.
He also praised the tactical changes introduced by De Zerbi, revealing that the squad are becoming increasingly comfortable with the Italian’s style of football.
Bentancur explained that De Zerbi has adapted his ideas to suit the strengths of the current squad, helping Tottenham look more organised both in and out of possession. He highlighted Spurs’ aggressive pressing display against Aston Villa as a perfect example of how the manager wants the team to play.
The midfielder said Tottenham are now enjoying having possession of the ball again while also understanding when to attack quickly and when to stay patient in build-up play.
Bentancur also reserved special praise for Pedro Porro ahead of the defender’s 150th appearance for Tottenham.
He described Porro as a “machine” and applauded both his professionalism and passion on the pitch. Bentancur also spoke warmly about their close friendship off the field, explaining that sharing the same language helped them build a strong relationship quickly after arriving at the club.
The Uruguayan pointed to Porro’s fighting mentality as something Tottenham desperately need during the relegation battle, comparing his aggression and determination to João Palhinha.
Bentancur finished by calling on Spurs to treat their remaining matches like cup finals, while also praising the support he received from fans after returning from injury against Brighton & Hove Albion.
With confidence slowly returning under De Zerbi, Tottenham will now hope to continue their resurgence when Leeds arrive in North London on Monday night.
