Zerbi blames Richarlison: conflict moves from bench to management

The relationship between Roberto Zerbi and Richarlison further fractured at Tottenham: the Brazilian, who had expressed his intention to leave the Spurs in the summer, stayed in London after the failed transfers to Everton and Vasco da Gama, only to be excluded from the first team.

Exclusion and appearance in Under 21

Following the rejection of the two transfers, the 1997-born player was relegated to the Under 21s, where he played in the EFL Trophy against Cheltenham on October 13. The episode reignited the rift with the Italian manager, who was already in the spotlight after a social media post on October 17.

Reactions of Ferguson and Zerbi

Richarlison shared Duncan Ferguson's words, the Everton legend, thanking him: “Thanks Duncan Ferguson, you’re right”. Ferguson had criticised the decision to keep the Brazilian out, arguing that only a serious incident or a training ground fight could have justified it.

At the October 18 press conference, Zerbi distanced himself, naming Vinai Venkatesham, chief executive, and Johan Lange, sporting director, as points of contact: “I don’t know, it’s no longer my problem”. He also clarified that he had not taken part in the decisions that led to the exclusion, stating that he must accept the pressure even when it is not his.

Zerbi urged to focus on the pitch, avoiding further controversy: “If you want to talk about me, you can do it and you know where to find me. I’m in my office from 8:30 until the evening”. His goal, he added, is the match against Coventry.

Tottenham approaches the October 19 fixture in a difficult situation: they are bottom of the table, with three draws and three defeats, and are still seeking their first league win. The Richarlison case adds another source of tension for a club that must react quickly.