Roberto De Zerbi has spoken out after Tottenham fans criticised him for defending Mason Greenwood in the past. He said he never meant to play down violence against women.
The 46 year old Italian was named Tottenham manager on a long term deal on Monday but the appointment quickly drew criticism from several fan groups linked to the club.
While he was in charge at Marseille last November, De Zerbi called Greenwood a good guy who had paid a heavy price after his 2022 arrest.
Greenwood had been charged with one count of attempted rape, controlling and coercive behaviour and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He denied the charges. The Crown Prosecution Service dropped them in February 2023.
The Tottenham Hotspur Supporters Trust called De Zerbi’s comments offensive. They warned the remarks could split the fanbase at a difficult time. The club is sitting just one point above the relegation zone with seven games left.
In his first interview with the club, De Zerbi said he has always stood up for people who are vulnerable. He added that he is not someone who puts aside his values to win more games or trophies.
The club said the issue was discussed behind the scenes during the hiring process. Sporting director Johan Lange accepted the concerns but called De Zerbi Tottenham’s top target.
It is still unclear whether his words will be enough for the fans who are upset. At the same time, the fight to stay in the Premier League needs his full attention.
