The Tottenham Hotspur Supporters’ Trust has criticized the appointment of Roberto De Zerbi, who supported Mason Greenwood during his time as Marseille manager, as Tottenham manager.
De Zervi’s signing of a five-year contract “raises serious and widespread concerns”, a strong statement from the group said, adding that Tottenham had been directly warned about the “strength of feelings” among fans.
The trust acknowledges that avoiding relegation is an “immediate priority” with Spurs currently sitting one point above the relegation zone with seven games remaining, but says De Zerbi’s hiring is likely to divide the fan base.
Greenwood moved from Manchester United to Marseille in 2024 following the allegations against him. This also includes attempted rape and assault. fell. Last November, De Zerbi described him as a “good man” who had paid a “big price”.
He added at the time, “It makes me sad what happened in his life because I know someone who is completely different from the person described.”
Greenwood was charged in October 2022 with attempted rape, controlling and coercive behavior and assault occasioning actual bodily harm for allegedly involving the woman after images and videos were posted online, but prosecutors dismissed the charges in February 2023.
The charges against former Manchester United striker Greenwood were dropped due to a “combination of the withdrawal of key witnesses and new material coming to light”. This means there is “no realistic possibility of conviction.”
Sky Sports News Spurs’ board have carefully considered and discussed sentiments about De Zerbi’s relationship with Greenwood during the hiring process and it is expected that their new manager will address this issue.
The Trust said De Zerbi’s comments about Greenwood were “unnecessary, ill-judged and deeply offensive to a significant number of his supporters”.
“We believe these comments, if left unchecked, will cause division among supporters at a time when we should all be coming together to support the team,” the statement said.
“It is concerning that the club would put us in this position at the very moment when the team needs their fans most.
“Fans are rallying behind the ‘All Together, Always’ initiative and this appointment puts a huge strain on that unity. If such comments reflect his true views, they cast a troubling shadow on the values of the club we love.”
The Trust, which had defended a short-term appointment until the end of the season before recruiting a permanent replacement for Igor Tudor over the summer, accused the club of risking undermining trust in its integrity and ethical standards.
“We fully understand that avoiding relegation is our top priority, but this situation is the result of a long-term strategic failure,” he added.
“THST has been warning for years that the club is heading in this direction and that its options have been seriously undermined by a lack of timely and sound decisions.
“It will take significant effort to restore the faith of many fans in the club’s leadership. The process must begin with transparency, accountability and a renewed commitment to the principles that define Tottenham Hotspur.”
‘Spurs have spoken to De Zerbi about fans’ concerns’
Sky Sports News’ chief correspondent Cave Solecol:
“The Tottenham board were aware of the strong feelings about his appointment and that some fans would be unhappy about it. They spoke to Roberto De Zerbi about it.
“This matter has been addressed privately and will be addressed publicly.
“De Zerbi will use his first press conference to answer questions from the media and concerns of journalists.”
