Roberto De Zerbi has made it clear that the most pressing issue he faces at Tottenham Hotspur is reshaping the squad's collective mindset. The Italian manager voiced his concerns after former England defender Jamie Carragher, working for Sky Sports, blasted the team's opening two fixtures as the "worst start" possible following a 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United. Tottenham have now endured two Premier League losses without finding the net, leaving them anchored at the foot of the table despite splashing roughly £320 million on new signings during the summer window. In the Newcastle match, Spurs appeared to be holding their own for much of the first half, only to concede the opening goal when Anthony Elanga struck midway through the second period.
The visitors doubled their advantage shortly after when Yoane Wissa tapped in from close range, and Tottenham were unable to mount a response. When asked whether the mental aspect was the biggest obstacle, De Zerbi answered unequivocally: "Yes, that's exactly it. The mentality is the biggest problem, the biggest challenge, and the primary target we need to hit. Unfortunately, you can't simply purchase a winning mentality in the transfer market.
Football is a bit like magic – you can bring in a host of new players in a single window, and sometimes the balance clicks instantly, but other times it takes much longer. I want to achieve that shift as quickly as possible because it is essential for playing good football." He went on to praise the broader project at the club, noting that the plan to rebuild a refreshed team with fresh faces is solid and that he has full confidence in its eventual outcome. "The club's vision, the project we are undertaking to construct a new side with these players, is a great plan. I have no doubt about the results that will come from it," De Zerbi said.
The manager also reiterated his disappointment with the result, apologising to the supporters and acknowledging the uneasy atmosphere that follows two early defeats. "I'm sorry for the fans and for the environment around the club.
After two losses, some people might think this is a repeat of the previous two seasons, but I firmly believe it is not. Two games cannot define the whole campaign," he explained. De Zerbi expressed unwavering belief in the quality of his squad.
"I have huge confidence in the abilities of my players. When we start to gel as a unit, improve the connections on the pitch, raise the standard of our play, and tighten our defensive shape, this group – whether I'm still in charge or another coach steps in – will remain strong because they are talented individuals," he added. He also lamented that the team is perhaps not yet ready to perform at the level expected, citing a range of factors that still need to be addressed.
Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher, speaking from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium during a co‑commentary segment, predicted that the club would likely pursue another signing after such a poor start. "Tottenham's start to the season couldn't have gone any worse," he said. "But it will take time for the new players to settle.
They've spent big money on quality midfielders like Mateus Fernandes and Sandro Tonali, and we saw glimpses of promise from Jan Paul van Hecke, but the work is far from finished." Carragher warned that panic could set in among the fan base and that the club might head back into the market. "When you lose two games badly, the urgency to act increases dramatically.
If you had won both, you might give the new signings until Christmas before making further moves. That's not the case here," he argued. Former England midfielder Jamie Redknapp, also on Sky Sports, urged patience from supporters. "There are a lot of new faces at Spurs and it will take time for them to click," Redknapp said.
"The manager is trying to solve a jigsaw puzzle – figuring out the best system, the ideal midfield trio, and how each player fits. There will be growing pains.
Senior players like Micky van de Ven also need to step up and lead, especially in front of goal." De Zerbi's comments reflect a broader narrative that Tottenham are in a transitional phase. The club's summer spending spree brought in a mix of experienced internationals and promising youngsters, but integrating them into a cohesive unit is a complex process. The manager highlighted that mentality cannot be bought; it must be cultivated through consistent training, clear communication, and shared belief.
He also touched on the tactical adjustments he plans to implement. By emphasizing a high‑pressing style that leverages the technical abilities of midfield signings, De Zerbi hopes to create more scoring opportunities and reduce defensive lapses. He believes that once the players understand their roles and develop trust in one another, the team will become more resilient and capable of turning close games into victories. In summary, while the early results have been disappointing, De Zerbi remains optimistic about the long‑term prospects of his project at Tottenham.
He acknowledges the immediate challenges, particularly the need to instill a winning mentality, but stresses that the club's strategic plan and the quality of the squad provide a solid foundation for future success. Fans are asked to exercise patience as the new signings settle, the tactical identity is refined, and the team begins to deliver the performances that justify the significant investment made over the summer.