With Igor Tudor’s departure confirmed, it’s brought an abrupt end to a short and difficult spell in charge.
The decision, reached by mutual consent, follows a run of poor results that left Spurs hovering just above the relegation zone and searching for direction.
It is a significant reset, but not an unexpected one.
Because when momentum turns negative, clubs at this level rarely wait.
And Tottenham are already doing that.
Roberto De Zerbi’s shock proposal as Spurs manager
According to Fabrizio Romano, Roberto De Zerbi has formally signed for Tottenham, with the club identifying him as a potential long-term solution rather than a short-term fix.
Tottenham have also remained adamant that De Zerbi will not be receiving payments, as the Italian has denied a relegation clause, if the side were to get relegated to the EFL Championship this season.
Meaning that this is a long-term solution, rather than a short-term one.
The appeal is clear.
A defined style, and the ability to rebuild structure rather than simply stabilise it.
That represents one direction; a longer-term vision.
But the reality of Tottenham’s situation complicates that idea.
Because time is limited.
And survival, not philosophy, may ultimately dictate the next move.
De Zerbi will be one of the highest paid managers in the Premier League, earning a reported £15m per year.
Sean Dyche was originally linked to the Spurs job, however, according to TalkSport, Dyche himself has moved to dismiss speculation, joking that unless Tottenham were conducting talks in a north London pub, the rumours were wide of the mark.
It was light-hearted, but also telling.
Because it reflects the uncertainty surrounding the role, with De Zerbi almost having to succeed.
For Tottenham, that is the challenge, as not only are they just appointing a manager; they’re also choosing a path.
Short-term survival or long-term rebuild?
And unless clarity arrives soon, the pressure will only intensify.
We are pleased to announce the appointment of Roberto De Zerbi as our new Men’s Head Coach on a long-term contract, subject to work permit.
🔗 https://t.co/DtXe0YJSlr pic.twitter.com/64tybrOhmr
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) March 31, 2026
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