De Zerbi to determine Bergvall’s future amid Tottenham’s New Zealand tour
Roberto De Zerbi confirms talks with Lucas Bergvall are imminent, while providing injury updates on key midfielders and outlining plans for further attacking reinforcements.
Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi has confirmed he will hold discussions with midfielder Lucas Bergvall regarding the player’s future during the club’s preseason tour in New Zealand. The talks are scheduled to take place in the coming days, with De Zerbi stating that the outcome will determine whether the Swedish international remains at the club or departs this summer.
Speaking ahead of the friendly against managerless Auckland FC, De Zerbi reiterated his stance on squad commitment, noting that players who are not happy or proud to stay must leave. He described Bergvall as a significant talent but emphasised that if the player wishes to depart, the matter will be managed by sporting director Johan Lange and chief executive Vinai Venkatesham, rather than the manager.
The tour has faced minor logistical challenges, including a 5.9 magnitude earthquake in the North Island, though the event occurred far from the training centre and caused only minor damage. De Zerbi used the opportunity to outline his vision for the upcoming season, stressing the importance of motivation and pride in representing Tottenham Stadium.
Injury updates were also provided for several key players. Midfielders Pape Matar Sarr and Rodrigo Bentancur are absent from the tour due to minor issues and have requested an additional week of rest following a demanding previous season. De Zerbi granted their requests, describing both as crucial to the squad’s plans.
Mohammed Kudus is nearing a return from injury, with De Zerbi indicating he will be available to work with the squad upon the team’s return to London. Conversely, Dejan Kulusevski requires further assessment after a long layoff due to a serious patella injury. The manager stated the club would not take risks with Kulusevski, prioritising careful analysis over immediate availability.
De Zerbi also addressed the transfer window, confirming that Tottenham has signed six first-team players this summer, including Andrew Robertson. He expressed satisfaction with the experience brought in but indicated that the window is not yet closed, with the club aiming to sign additional attacking players to improve squad depth and mentality.
The team is currently engaged in a three-match stint in New Zealand and Australia. The upcoming fixture against Auckland FC kicks off at 3:00 pm local time on Sunday, with coverage available exclusively on Tottenham’s in-house subscription platform, SpursPLAY.
