Roberto De Zerbi's future at Tottenham is already in question after a dismal start to the 2026/27 season.
The North Londoners managed to pick up just one point from their first three Premier League matches, failing to find the net in the process. Following defeats to Brentford and Newcastle United, they settled for a goalless draw against Nottingham Forest.
Despite a significant squad overhaul over the summer, the results thus far have fallen woefully short of expectations from both the hierarchy and the fans.
De Zerbi received considerable backing
The Italian tactician was given substantial financial backing during the summer transfer window.
Tottenham splashed over £300 million, significantly refreshing their squad. Among the most expensive signings were Sandro Tonali from Newcastle for £92.5 million, Matheus Fernandes from West Ham for £85 million, and Savio from Manchester City for £75 million.
Jan Paul van Hecke, Marcos Senesi, and Andy Robertson also joined the fold, while Omar Marmush and Mykhailo Mudryk were brought in on loan.
De Zerbi had emphasised the need for time to build a new team during the summer, underlining that he expected a transition period.
However, the hefty transfer spend has placed added pressure on him, as the hierarchy is eager to witness improved performances.
Decision may come in November
Former Everton chief executive Keith Wyness believes that De Zerbi should be given until the second international break of the season.
The break, scheduled from November 9 to 17, could serve as a critical assessment point for the Italian manager's future.
If Tottenham's fortunes do not change by then, the board may contemplate a change in management.
However, there are currently no plans for an immediate dismissal, with the club set on giving the manager an opportunity to rectify the situation, considering the scale of the summer overhaul.
Key issue — lack of goals
The biggest concern remains the team's inability to score.
Tottenham have failed to register a single goal in their opening three league matches, the first time they've started a Premier League season without finding the net since 1974.
Despite their considerable summer investment, the new attacking unit has struggled to provide the necessary firepower.
Following the goalless draw with Nottingham Forest, De Zerbi admitted the team needs to sharpen their play in the final third. Nonetheless, he has also highlighted some positive aspects in their performances and has urged patience as the revamped squad finds its rhythm.
Richarlison situation complicates matters
Another complication for De Zerbi is the ongoing saga surrounding Richarlison.
The Brazilian was excluded from Tottenham's Premier League squad after expressing a desire to leave the club during the summer. De Zerbi explained that the forward wanted to move on.
Richarlison was the team's top scorer last season, netting 11 goals, so his absence is particularly felt in light of the current goal drought.
He is currently training separately, and his future at the club remains uncertain.
De Zerbi must act quickly
The coming weeks could prove crucial for the Italian manager.
With substantial backing in the transfer market, the absence of results is gradually ramping up the pressure. Yet, the hierarchy understands that a squad featuring ten new players cannot immediately gel into a cohesive unit.
For now, De Zerbi retains the board's trust, but if Tottenham continues to drop points and struggles for goals, the November international break could indeed signal a pivotal moment for his tenure.
