Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi has confirmed that James Maddison could be set for his first start in 500 days when they face Coventry.
The attacking midfielder last kicked off a match in May 2025 during the Europa League, and since then, he has endured two serious anterior cruciate ligament injuries. This season, Maddison has only managed a total on the pitch of 90 minutes during substitute appearances.
De Zerbi addressed the press concerning Maddison's readiness to feature from the start.
It might be, yes. I think, of course, he needs to play a lot more matches to reach his optimal fitness. However, there are players who can still be very impactful, even if they only play for 10, 15, or 20 minutes, and James is one of those. I believe he is ready to start in this season, right now. I’m unsure if we will start with him, but I look forward to that moment.
Additionally, Dejan Kulusevski might also step onto the pitch, having not played for 526 days due to a significant knee injury. However, two starting players will definitely miss the encounter due to fresh injuries.
Meanwhile, the Italian coach shared insights about a recent training camp in Marbella that took place between their matches against Manchester United and Coventry. During this trip, he imposed a strict ban on the use of mobile phones.
We worked hard on the pitch, spending quality time together. We took away phones during breakfast, lunch, and dinner to ensure we could be present with one another because phones are constantly in use nowadays. We conducted two or three crucial meetings, discussing football, our current situation, and how every player must take responsibility. There were only dinners for players and different dinners for staff. A few days together without families, putting the club first, is completely normal and beneficial.
The manager added that outside of team activities, the players were free to roam the city, as he is not keen on imposing army-like rules.
