Tottenham have been given the go-ahead to pursue a move for a coach widely regarded as one of the best managers in world football.
Tottenham Hotspur may have been handed the opportunity to move for a leading managerial target following an update from GIVEMESPORT senior reporter Fabrizio Romano on Tuesday night.
Just hours after Spurs’ defeat to Newcastle left them 16th in the Premier League table and five points above the relegation zone, Romano confirmed on X that Marseille had parted company with head coach Roberto De Zerbi.
The Italian’s future had been uncertain since Marseille’s 5-0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain on Sunday, with reports later on Tuesday indicating the 46-year-old was set to depart after discussions with his players left him unconvinced. De Zerbi ultimately decided it was the right time to leave, a decision agreed upon by Marseille’s hierarchy.
De Zerbi a Key Target for Tottenham
Reports last month stated that Tottenham had identified De Zerbi as one of their primary managerial targets should they choose to part ways with Thomas Frank at the end of the season, with the board initially prepared to continue backing the Dane. However, results have continued to decline.
Spurs and other interested clubs may have anticipated waiting until the summer to pursue De Zerbi, but his departure from Marseille now presents an immediate opportunity. Pressure is mounting on Frank, who was booed by supporters following another home defeat to Eddie Howe’s Newcastle. Tottenham are still without a Premier League win in 2026.
Their next fixture is against league leaders Arsenal at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with the Gunners chasing their first Premier League title since 2004.
Highly Rated Across Europe
Despite leaving Marseille, De Zerbi is expected to attract significant interest in the coming weeks. His reputation within European football remains strong. Pep Guardiola previously described him as “one of the most influential managers in the last 20 years,” praising his distinctive style of play during his time at Brighton.
More recently, Liverpool head coach Arne Slot labelled him “one of the best managers in the world,” stating that De Zerbi would be among his top choices if he were appointing a manager at a football club.
According to GIVEMESPORT senior correspondent Ben Jacobs, Tottenham had previously attempted to appoint De Zerbi before turning to Thomas Frank. Jacobs has also reported interest from Manchester United and Manchester City, increasing the competition for his signature.
