Tottenham's Summer Business Under De Zerbi: Can They Turn It Around?
Short overview
A Football Daily panel, including Andros Townsend and Chris Hughton, debates whether Roberto De Zerbi's summer signings can revive Tottenham Hotspur ahead of the 2026/27 Premier League season. The episode covers tactics, finances, and the impact of no European football.
In the latest episode of Football Daily, a panel of former players and fans gathered to assess Tottenham Hotspur's prospects for the 2026/27 Premier League season under new manager Roberto De Zerbi. The discussion comes after a challenging couple of seasons for the club, with the panel weighing whether De Zerbi's summer business will be enough to turn things around.
Former Spurs winger Andros Townsend, former fullback Chris Hughton, and fan Flav Bateman joined host Aaron Paul to share their insights. The conversation opened with initial thoughts on the club's current state, before delving into the identity De Zerbi has instilled in the team and his tactical approach.
De Zerbi's Tactical Identity
The panel examined the profile of the manager himself, questioning whether he has the character to change the club's fortunes. BBC Sport's tactics correspondent Umir Irfan provided analysis of De Zerbi's style, highlighting how his approach could shape Tottenham's play. The discussion covered the tactical nuances that De Zerbi has brought to the squad, with time codes in the episode marking segments on his identity and tactical methods.
Summer Signings and Financial Outlook
The episode also reviewed the club's summer business, focusing on how new signings Sandro Tonali and Matheus Fernandes will fit into the squad. Football finance expert Kieran Maguire explained the state of Tottenham's spending this summer, offering context on the club's financial position and transfer strategy.
Injury Concerns and European Absence
Finally, the panel addressed the impact of last season's injury crisis and whether the lack of European football will benefit the club this season. With a lighter fixture schedule, De Zerbi may have more time to work with his squad and implement his methods, potentially aiding their recovery and performance.
The episode is available for 29 days on the Football Daily programme website, with time codes for each segment: 00:55 – Initial Thoughts, 07:25 – Identity Roberto De Zerbi has given Spurs, 17:20 – De Zerbi's tactical approach, 23:20 – Summer window, 31:25 – Football Finance Expert Kieran Maguire on Tottenham's finances, and 39:40 – Injuries and forward options.
More on these topics
Tottenham's Kirsty Hanson Signing Could Prove Summer's Smartest Deal
Kirsty Hanson's move from Aston Villa to Tottenham may have gone under the radar, but the Scotland forward was the WSL's third-highest scorer last season. With 12 goals in 22 matches, she could be the key to Spurs' top-three ambitions.

Ayyoub Bouaddi joins Manchester City in €100m move
Morocco international Ayyoub Bouaddi has completed a €100 million transfer from Lille to Manchester City. The 18-year-old midfielder, who impressed at the FIFA World Cup 2026, will continue his development at the Premier League club ahead of the 2030 World Cup.
Monday Night Club: Villa's Woes, Transfer Timing, and Premier League
On Monday Night Club, Mark Chapman and guests analyze Aston Villa's rough start, Ollie Watkins' future, delayed transfer business, and why several Premier League teams looked unprepared in the opening weekend.
Football Daily Podcast: Premier League Opening Weekend Review and
In the latest Football Daily podcast, Rick Edwards, Luke Edwards, and Charlie Austin review the opening Premier League weekend, including tributes to Kevin Keegan and Hull City's victory over Manchester United. Special guest Dean Holden discusses the win and the team's motivations.

