Robertson backs De Zerbi as Spurs grapple with a painful start in London

Andy Robertson has openly backed Roberto De Zerbi at Tottenham Hotspur, insisting the new manager can reverse a season that has begun in disarray. The Scottish captain, a free‑transfer signing, says the club’s recent struggles stem from the weight of two consecutive 17th‑place finishes.

Summer spending and early setbacks

Spurs poured over £300 million into the transfer market last summer to avoid another relegation battle, yet the investment has not translated into results. After five league games – two draws and three defeats – Tottenham sit at the foot of the Premier League table and have already exited the Carabao Cup following a loss to Liverpool.

Robertson’s view of the squad’s mindset

Speaking on the Stick to Football podcast, Robertson said the pain of the previous campaigns still lingers among the players and supporters. “They’ve had a couple of really tough seasons in terms of finishes in the league,” he observed, adding that the determination he sees now is a sign the club is beginning a new journey.

He noted that De Zerbi has made it clear the team must move on from past failings, with the recent signings expected to drive that change. “That’s the message of the manager, first and foremost,” Robertson explained, stressing the need to forget the baggage of finishing 17th twice.

Shearer warns Roberto De Zerbi that Spurs risk relegation despite Champions hopes

Recalling specific matches, Robertson praised moments of quality against Liverpool but lamented the team’s tendency to lose composure when conceding. “We played so well there in moments, and then you get a goal against you, and it’s like heads down,” he said, describing the swing from a 2‑1 lead to a defensive collapse.

He also highlighted a dominant display against Everton that unraveled in the closing stages, attributing the panic to lingering doubts. “He wants all of us to be the ones that help drive us on, because he thinks that we don’t have the baggage of finishing 17th in two seasons and he’s right,” Robertson added.

Robertson warns Tottenham bear last season’s weight at rock‑bottom

Looking ahead, Spurs return to action on 10 October after the international break, travelling to Manchester United. Both De Zerbi and Red Devils boss Michael Carrick will be desperate for a win to ease the pressure on their respective jobs.