De Zerbi shifts Richarlison's blame onto Tottenham's board

In the corridors of Tottenham's stadium, the atmosphere is heavy ahead of the clash with Coventry this Monday, the seventh round of the Premier League. Roberto De Zerbi, the Italian coach, has reaffirmed his disengagement from the Brazilian striker, after a jab from the player on social media. The conflict between the two figures has intensified since the start of the season.

Open conflict between the coach and the striker

Benched from the first training sessions, Richarlison publicly criticised De Zerbi, which triggered a terse response from the coach before the Coventry match. At the press conference, De Zerbi said: “It’s no longer my problem. The question needs to be addressed to Vinai and Johan.” He added that he remained available in his office from 8:30 am until the evening, but that he had made no decision regarding the player.

Richarlison consigned to the youth teams

After being fielded in the 3‑0 loss to Brentford, the Brazilian was relegated to the U21s, excluded from the list of 25 players eligible in the Premier League. Despite several offers, including Everton and Vasco da Gama, he has not left the club and continues to play with the youngsters, having recently taken part in the Jersey Mike’s Trophy.

In a friendly against Cheltenham Town, Richarlison scored a goal before converting a shot into a penalty during a session that ended in a 7‑6 defeat. He continued his activity by signing autographs and posing for supporters, thus showing his professionalism despite the situation.

Tottenham currently sit at the bottom of the Premier League table and are desperately seeking a win to climb out of the relegation zone. De Zerbi made it clear that he is not counting on the Brazilian to reverse the trend.

The dispute remains open, the Italian coach insisting that the responsibility lies with the executives Vinai Venkatesham and Johan Lange. Richarlison, for his part, continues to train with the youngsters while remaining in the spotlight of the supporters.