‘Like a family’: De Zerbi credits players’ talk and bonding trip for improving Tottenham

Roberto De Zerbi noted that Spurs have played more cohesively following a clarifying meeting ahead of their clash with Manchester United.

Spurs drew 1‑1 with Manchester United while ten men grazed the opponent, and were subsequently placed nine points off the relegation zone after a 3‑1 home victory over Coventry on Monday night. De Zerbi felt the performance against Coventry could be improved, yet he was pleased with his side’s attitude, which secured their first Premier League win of the campaign.

“It’s important,” the Spurs manager said. “The result matters, but above all, two things. First, we have confirmed we can beat clubs like others in the Premier League. Second, by embracing lessons—such as the reflection we held the day before Old Trafford—we cannot afford to hide responsibility.”

De Zerbi led the squad on a bonding trip to Marbella for warm‑weather training last week. He explained, “This week has been essential because we spend time together; we want to be like a family. When difficulties arise during a match, we must prioritize supporting teammates as friends and brothers rather than acting like a cast of robots on the pitch.”

Spurs opened the scoring when James Maddison returned from 536 days absent with a standout goal. Coventry equaled it through Jack Rudoni, but Omar Marmoush added his first goalscoring effort since departing Manchester City to tie the score. Ben Davies then completed the tally to secure the draw.

“They bring distinct qualities to rotation—different talent, experience, and personality—which creates a richer atmosphere in the changing rooms,” De Zerbi observed.

Frank Lampard commended Coventry’s fighting spirit while expressing surprise that Marmoush’s goal wasn’t overturned after an incident involving Milan van Ewijk. “I believed” Lampard replied. “If a player rolls and delivers a high elbow connecting with his opponent, a review board would intervene.”

Lampard stayed optimistic after the narrow defeat, describing the match as a significant showcase. “The 3‑1 difference shifts the narrative”, he declared. “At 2‑1 we were certainly competitive.”

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