Tottenham's struggles have been evident since Roberto De Zerbi's first game in charge, where they fell to Sunderland, further entrenching their position in the bottom three. The appointment of De Zerbi, one of the highest-paid head coaches, is seen as a high-stakes gamble, especially given the team's persistent problems under different managers.
Despite De Zerbi's philosophical approach and distinctive playing style, the current Spurs side seems incapable of executing his plans, as seen in their defeat at Sunderland. The team lacks a recognizable style, and De Zerbi's tactics, although sound in theory, were not effectively implemented. Tottenham's relegation chances have surged to 49.5%, according to Opta, following Leeds' win over Manchester United, with the team securing only one point from a possible 24.
Their 14-match winless Premier League run is their worst since 1935, making them increasingly likely contenders for relegation. De Zerbi's first press conference highlighted his focus on character, spirit, and courage, but these qualities were largely absent in the Sunderland game.
The team's central areas were packed with energy, but they failed to dominate the ball, leading to an imbalance. Granit Xhaka, Noah Sadiki, and Habib Diarra formed a more accomplished trio for Sunderland, controlling the tempo and generating passes into the final third. Tottenham's midfielders struggled, with Sunderland's goalkeeper, Robin Roefs, playing more final-third passes than all three of Tottenham's midfielders.
Out of possession, Sunderland were superior, winning more tackles and making more interceptions. Spurs were able to land seven shots on target, but only one was deemed a big chance, which was missed by Dominic Solanke.
Full-back Pedro Porro was the best hope of an open-play threat, which does not reflect well on Spurs' attacking contingent. De Zerbi is an ideas man, but he lacks fit creators, and the decision to leave Xavi Simons in reserve until the end of the game has been questioned.
This six-game gauntlet will be decided by such decisions, particularly with the absence of captain Cristian Romero due to injury. By the time Brighton visits the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, De Zerbi will have had two weeks to get to grips with his squad, but he will not have the luxury of lavish means to beat his former team.
Tangible improvements need to be made, starting with the basics. Spurs must start on the front foot to face this crisis head-on, as they are winless in their last 32 Premier League games after going behind. They have only spent 18.3% of games in winning positions all season, well below the league's average.
It has been nearly four months since they last tasted victory in the league, but whatever the variables, Tottenham must find a way to win this weekend. They must draw from the well of relegation fear with greater effectiveness, especially in moments of misfortune. Theoretically, this is a team of good players, and now it is up to De Zerbi to get them performing with the strength of character to prove it.