Tottenham Hotspur’s survival hopes received a crucial lift following their hard-fought win over Wolverhampton Wanderers, a result manager Roberto De Zerbi will feel was made possible largely thanks to the influence of Joao Palhinha.
While Spurs remain in the relegation zone, they are still within touching distance of safety after key rivals West Ham United and Nottingham Forest picked up important wins. The Hammers, currently 17th, sit just two points ahead, ensuring a tense finish to the season.
Tottenham’s main issue has been consistency in attack. Injuries have severely disrupted their rhythm, with James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski, and now Xavi Simons all sidelined. Simons’ recent ACL injury against Wolves has further depleted De Zerbi’s creative options at a crucial stage of the campaign.
Despite the setbacks, there are signs of progress within the squad. Several players have improved under De Zerbi’s leadership, with Antonin Kinsky stepping up impressively in place of Guglielmo Vicario. Similarly, new signings such as Conor Gallagher have begun to adapt after a difficult start following his £35m move from Atletico Madrid.
However, the most notable transformation has come in midfield, where Rodrigo Bentancur is beginning to rediscover his best form.
Bentancur Emerging as De Zerbi’s Midfield Anchor
Bentancur, once heavily criticised for inconsistent performances under previous management, has recently become one of Tottenham’s most reliable figures. Analysts previously questioned his suitability for a top-six side, but his recent displays suggest a significant turnaround.
Since returning from injury, the Uruguayan has provided composure, structure, and improved ball progression in midfield. In Tottenham’s recent matches against Brighton and Wolves, he has been their most effective midfielder, offering balance and control in a previously chaotic engine room.
Statistically, Bentancur has stood out for his passing accuracy, defensive work, and ability to regain possession under pressure — qualities that have helped Spurs stabilise in key moments.
“De Zerbi’s New Caicedo” Role Taking Shape
Bentancur’s evolution has drawn comparisons to Moises Caicedo, who thrived under De Zerbi during his time at Brighton before his £111m move to Chelsea.
While Bentancur does not possess Caicedo’s explosiveness or attacking flair, his intelligence, positional discipline, and ability to dictate tempo have made him a vital presence in Tottenham’s midfield rebuild.
De Zerbi appears to have found a role tailored to his strengths — one that allows him to control transitions, break up play, and initiate attacks from deep.
Key Figure in Survival Run-In
With Spurs fighting for survival and creativity in short supply, Bentancur’s form could prove decisive in the final stretch of the season. His resurgence offers De Zerbi a rare source of stability in an otherwise unsettled squad.
As Tottenham head into the decisive run-in, the Uruguayan midfielder may not be a headline star, but he is quickly becoming one of the most important players in their fight to stay in the Premier League.
