Conor Gallagher has praised Roberto De Zerbi for transforming the atmosphere at Tottenham, revealing how the Italian coach has rebuilt confidence within the squad through personal one-on-one meetings with players.
When De Zerbi arrived at Spurs, the club were deep in relegation trouble, but the former Brighton boss consistently insisted that Tottenham had enough quality to survive.
That belief now appears to be spreading throughout the squad and fanbase alike, with back-to-back wins over Wolves and Aston Villa lifting Spurs out of the bottom three.
Tottenham’s impressive display at Villa Park last weekend offered another glimpse of De Zerbi’s growing influence, with the team showing renewed energy, organisation and confidence.
Gallagher praises De Zerbi’s personal approach
De Zerbi recently revealed that he has used unusual methods to motivate players, including encouraging some members of the squad to watch clips of their own best performances to rebuild belief.
Gallagher has now explained how the Tottenham boss has also relied heavily on individual conversations and personal support behind the scenes.
“The gaffer has been brilliant with us,” Gallagher said. “He’s brought the team together and spent a lot of time working individually with players through one-to-one meetings and chats.
He’s really tried to restore confidence and belief, and it’s definitely helped me personally. I know he’s done the same with many of the other lads as well.”
The midfielder also praised the tactical work being done at Hotspur Way, insisting the entire squad has fully bought into De Zerbi’s methods.
“Everything he’s done on the training pitch and in meetings has been excellent. Everyone is on the same page now.”
Gallagher thriving under the new manager
Shortly after taking charge, De Zerbi spoke openly about wanting Gallagher to rediscover the form he showed during his best spell at Chelsea.
That vision appears to be taking shape quickly, with the England international delivering one of his best performances of the season in Tottenham’s recent win over Aston Villa.
Playing in a more advanced midfield role, Gallagher impressed with his pressing, movement and energy — qualities De Zerbi values highly.
Following the victory, the Spurs manager joked that having Gallagher in full flow feels “like playing with 12 men” because of the midfielder’s relentless work rate and influence across the pitch.
With momentum building and belief returning, Gallagher’s resurgence could prove crucial as Tottenham fight to secure Premier League survival in the closing weeks of the campaign.
