Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi has strongly pushed back against the wave of negativity surrounding the club, calling it “rubbish” ahead of their crucial Premier League trip to Aston Villa.
Spurs finally secured their first win of 2026 against Wolves, but the result was overshadowed by fresh injury setbacks to Xavi Simons and Dominic Solanke. The growing injury list, combined with West Ham United picking up points elsewhere, has intensified scrutiny on the club—from medical staff to playing surfaces.
De Zerbi, however, is refusing to entertain the negativity. Speaking ahead of the Villa clash, he urged everyone connected to the club—players, staff, and fans—to block out self-doubt and pessimism.
“We must silence that voice inside us that creates negative thoughts—about injuries, bad luck, or anything else. It’s all rubbish,” he said.
Instead, the Italian coach is choosing to focus on the strengths within his squad, insisting Tottenham have the quality to compete despite their difficult position.
He also dismissed the idea that a win at Villa Park would be a shock result:
“We are playing one of the best teams right now, but if Tottenham win, it’s not a miracle. We have the quality to do it.”
With Spurs fighting to avoid relegation, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Former manager Harry Redknapp has even suggested De Zerbi would achieve “hero” status if he keeps the club in the top flight.
Despite external pressure and Villa’s strong form under Unai Emery, De Zerbi remains focused solely on his team—determined to approach the challenge with belief rather than fear.
