De Zerbi's Tottenham Debut: What to Expect and Predicted Lineup

Roberto De Zerbi embodies the Tottenham motto 'To Dare is To Do' and has had over a week to assess his new squad. Despite the challenges, including low player confidence and injuries, De Zerbi is optimistic about avoiding relegation. The players have responded positively to his training sessions, and his first game in charge is against Sunderland. With goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario injured, Antonin Kinsky will start, and De Zerbi must boost his confidence. The predicted lineup includes a back four of Pedro Porro, Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven, and Destiny Udogie, with Lucas Bergvall and Archie Gray in midfield. Xavi Simons could start in the No 10 role, while Mathys Tel and Richarlison are expected to start on the wings, with Dominic Solanke up front. De Zerbi needs to simplify his tactics and give players confidence to achieve a first league win of 2026, which could spark a run and help Tottenham avoid relegation.