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Opposition is intensifying among official fan groups at Tottenham Hotspur following the appointment of Roberto De Zerbi as the club's new manager, with concerns centered on his past comments about Mason Greenwood.
The Tottenham Hotspur Supporters' Trust held an emergency board meeting on Monday and has since written to the club, stating it cannot support the decision. According to the group, it received a significant number of emails from fans expressing concern and dissatisfaction.
Criticism has also come from Women of the Lane. Co-founder Ali Speechly said she opposes the appointment and indicated she would stop attending matches as a result. Other groups, including Proud Lillywhites and SpursREACH, have also raised concerns publicly.
The controversy stems from comments De Zerbi made about Greenwood during his time managing Olympique de Marseille. Greenwood had previously faced serious allegations, which were later dropped. De Zerbi stated that the player had "paid in a strong way" and described him as a good person, remarks that critics say downplay the seriousness of the situation and frame Greenwood too sympathetically.
Despite the backlash, Tottenham confirmed De Zerbi's appointment on a five-year deal following the departure of Igor Tudor. However, the Italian coach now faces the challenge of winning over a divided fan base while the team battles to secure its place in the Premier League.
Trust secretary Tristan Foot said the group had formally communicated supporters' concerns to club leadership and urged them to reflect on the values the club represents. He noted that the issue goes beyond football performance and touches on integrity and accountability.
Speechly echoed these sentiments, arguing that De Zerbi's continued support for Greenwood raises serious questions about character and leadership. She emphasized that the matter is about safety, respect, and whether fans feel represented by the club's decisions.
In a statement released after the appointment, the Supporters' Trust described De Zerbi's remarks as unnecessary and deeply offensive to many supporters. The group added that the situation risks undermining the club's commitment to equality, respect, and inclusion, values it says are central to the Tottenham community.
