Why it's trending
Roberto De Zerbi's blunt ultimatum that unhappy players must leave, combined with the specific drama around Lucas Bergvall's potential move to Nottingham Forest after a rejected £38m bid, has sparked significant fan and media interest. The comments were made in a pre-season press conference ahead of Spurs' friendly in New Zealand, drawing attention to the club's transfer activity and squad dynamics.
Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi has stated that any player not 'happy' and 'proud' to be at the club should leave, in comments reported by BBC Sport and ESPN ahead of a pre-season friendly against Auckland FC. The Italian, who took over in March and helped avoid relegation, made the remarks amid speculation over midfielder Lucas Bergvall's future.
Nottingham Forest had a £38m bid for Bergvall rejected, with sources indicating they will increase their offer to £45m, per BBC. Bergvall, who joined Spurs from Djurgarden in 2024, played limited minutes last season under De Zerbi, starting just the Italian's first match and making four substitute appearances.
De Zerbi confirmed he has not yet spoken to Bergvall but plans to do so in the coming days. 'If he wants to stay, I will be happy. Otherwise, we have to find a new solution,' De Zerbi said, as quoted by Cartilage Free Captain. The manager emphasized the importance of motivation, noting that Spurs have already added midfielders Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes for a combined £185m.
The situation highlights Tottenham's active transfer window under De Zerbi, who is building a squad with 'two players for each position.' Bergvall's decision could lead to a departure if he seeks regular first-team football, with Forest poised to capitalize. The outcome may also signal the club's direction under De Zerbi's leadership.
Timeline
- De Zerbi appointed Tottenham manager
Roberto De Zerbi took over as Spurs head coach and helped the team avoid Premier League relegation.
- Lucas Bergvall joins Tottenham
The Swedish midfielder moved from Djurgarden but played limited minutes in his first season, per BBC.
- Nottingham Forest submits £38m bid for Bergvall
Forest's initial offer was rejected, with reports they will increase to £45m, as reported by BBC.
- De Zerbi press conference ahead of Auckland friendly
De Zerbi told reporters that players not happy or proud to be at Tottenham should leave, addressing Bergvall's future.
Questions people ask
Will Lucas Bergvall leave Tottenham this summer?
It is uncertain. Nottingham Forest have made a £38m bid, rejected by Spurs, and are expected to offer £45m. De Zerbi plans to speak with Bergvall to determine his intentions. If Bergvall wants regular first-team football, a move is possible given increased competition at Spurs.
What did Roberto De Zerbi say about player happiness?
De Zerbi said explicitly that any player who is not 'happy' and 'proud' to be at Tottenham 'has to leave.' He emphasized the need for motivation and a desire to play for the club.
Why is Bergvall's role at Tottenham limited?
Bergvall joined in 2024 and played only a few minutes last season, starting one match under De Zerbi. Spurs have since signed midfielders Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes, increasing competition for places.
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