Tottenham Hotspur is experiencing a disappointing start under coach Roberto De Zerbi. After two Premier League rounds, Spurs have lost all matches, have not scored any goals despite spending about 380 million pounds to strengthen the squad in the summer.
The 0-2 defeat to Newcastle United at home shows the problems that De Zerbi needs to quickly solve. Tottenham played quite well at times, launching 17 shots and creating some dangerous opportunities, but ineffectiveness in decisive moments prevented them from finding a goal.
Meanwhile, Newcastle showed cohesion despite just experiencing a volatile summer. Matthias Jaissle's team played better and better after the break and effectively exploited the weaknesses in Spurs' defense system.
Anthony Elanga's opening goal came after a long pass that broke the offside trap, while Yoane Wissa doubled the gap with a beautiful finish after a set-piece situation. Both conceded goals showed that Tottenham's defense has not improved significantly compared to last season.
De Zerbi admits Tottenham is not ready for the new season. The Italian coach believes that the team needs more time to increase cohesion, improve the quality of play and especially the ability to react after conceding goals.
Sandro Tonali is one of the biggest disappointing faces. The player who used to wear the Newcastle shirt had a lackluster performance on the day of facing his old team. A powerless pass right at the beginning of the match put Spurs in a dangerous position, while he could not create enough impact in the midfield area.
In the opposite direction, Nico Gonzalez quickly made an impression in Newcastle's colors just a few days after moving from Manchester City. The contrast between the two new players further increases the pressure on Tonali.
The Spurs" are also affected by Savio's absence. The 75 million pound winger just scored in the Carabao Cup but could not play due to a minor injury. Omar Marmoush was given a replacement opportunity, but this striker, despite being active, was still not sharp enough to penetrate Newcastle's defense.
De Zerbi also faces another problem when Richarlison, Kevin Danso and Pape Matar Sarr are all said to have requested to leave Tottenham. This could cause Spurs' squad to continue to fluctuate before the transfer window closes.
Tottenham has invested heavily in the summer with the expectation of creating an immediate change. However, after two matches, they still have no points, have not scored and have revealed many familiar problems from last season.
De Zerbi still affirms that he believes in Tottenham's project, but that belief will soon be challenged if the team does not quickly improve. With huge investment and great expectations from fans, Spurs do not have much time to find their way back.
