Roberto De Zerbi has emphasized the importance of Tottenham Hotspur’s final Premier League match against Everton, describing it as more significant than last season’s Europa League final. With Tottenham facing the threat of relegation, De Zerbi stressed that the club’s dignity and pride are at stake in the upcoming game.
Why this matters
Tottenham’s position in the Premier League remains uncertain after a 2-1 defeat at Chelsea. The club must secure at least a draw in their final home game against Everton to avoid relegation. This match will determine whether Tottenham stays in the top flight or if West Ham, currently two points behind Spurs, will be relegated instead. The outcome will have a major impact on the club’s future and standing.
Key developments
- Tottenham lost 2-1 at Chelsea, leaving the last relegation spot open.
- Spurs need a point at home against Everton to guarantee safety.
- West Ham, two points behind Tottenham with a worse goal difference, face Leeds in their final game.
De Zerbi’s perspective on the final game
De Zerbi highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating that the upcoming match is more important than last season’s Europa League final against Manchester United. While the Europa League victory brought silverware and celebrations, De Zerbi believes maintaining Premier League status is crucial for the club’s pride and dignity.
“The most important game is Sunday because last season they played for the trophy, now we play for something more important. Because the pride, the history of the club, the dignity are more important than the trophy.”
“The trophy you can win, you can lose and nothing changes in your life. You can have one trophy more. But the most important is to keep the dignity, to keep the pride, to go on holiday like this [with your head up] and not like this [with your head down].”
Team focus and mentality
De Zerbi expressed confidence that his players understand the significance of the match and are fully committed. He said he has been living and breathing Tottenham for the past 45 days, focusing solely on preparing the team for this crucial game.
When asked if the players grasped the concept of dignity, De Zerbi replied, “Very well. I know they do because I’m living just for Tottenham. I have lived the last 45 days just for one thing – Tottenham and for my players. I know them very well. Every one of them is focused on the target.”
Reflections on the Chelsea match
De Zerbi chose not to focus on a controversial non-awarded penalty late in the Chelsea game, when Micky van de Ven was challenged by Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella. The referee ruled the foul occurred before the ball was in play.
Instead, De Zerbi praised his team’s energy and passion in the final 20 minutes of the match, particularly highlighting Richarlison’s goal that reduced the deficit.
“I would like if we play Sunday like the last 20 minutes because in the last 20 minutes we showed, I think, more energy, more passion, something more inside of us,” De Zerbi said.
“It’s difficult but it’s an opportunity for every one of us. When you fight for the relegation, you have to stay inside of the league until the last minute of the last game of the season. We have to stay alive. It is a big day for us.”
Recommended reading
For more context, see related Peack News coverage and explainers linked below.
