Roberto De Zerbi Follows Pochettino’s Example with Tottenham Squad Trip to Spain

De Zerbi Draws from Pochettino's Past at Tottenham

Roberto De Zerbi, Tottenham's manager, appears to have taken a page from Mauricio Pochettino’s/strong} playbook by organizing a team bonding trip to Spain during the Premier League season. Tottenham has struggled this campaign, still searching for their first league win.

The recent match against Manchester United gave some hope as Spurs showed clear progress despite finishing with ten men after Rodrigo Bentancur’s red card. The team earned a point but couldn’t secure victory. Even with significant summer spending, De Zerbi has found it challenging to get his players performing consistently.

Midseason Team Bonding in Spain

According to Football London, De Zerbi decided to take the squad away this week to Spain, aiming to build stronger connections among the players. De Zerbi explained the purpose: "To work together, to stay together, to go for dinner together, to know better each other, because to be a team you have to know the team-mates, and be together."

This kind of trip is unusual mid-campaign. Usually, clubs arrange bonding activities during preseason or international breaks, not just days after one ends. But Pochettino tried something similar seven years ago when he took his squad away ahead of the Champions League final.

Potential Impact on Tottenham’s Season

With over ten players signed in the summer, Tottenham’s squad has plenty of talent, though it hasn’t clicked yet. New arrivals and departures often mean there’s an adjustment period where players need time to gel.

This trip could provide that chance to form stronger relationships off the pitch, which might translate into better performances on it. Tottenham’s upcoming fixture sees them hosting Coventry in the Premier League on Monday night, and fans will watch closely for signs of improvement.

• Match Date: October 19, 2026, 8:00 PM
• Fixture: Tottenham vs Coventry