Roberto De Zerbi has firmly rejected claims that Tottenham’s medical team is at fault for the club’s persistent selection headaches, labeling the current injury toll as “normal” ahead of Saturday’s clash at Stamford Bridge. The Spurs boss faces a daunting task with nine players ruled out due to injury, including long-term absentees Lucas Bergvall and Savio, as well as suspended midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur. Despite the setbacks, De Zerbi offered a glimmer of hope by confirming that Andy Robertson, Omar Marmoush, and Dominic Solanke are in good shape, while Pedro Porro’s return provides a significant boost to the squad’s depth.
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The injury list remains extensive, with Destiny Udogie still sidelined and Tosin Adarabioyo a doubt for the trip to London. Captain James Maddison, who missed three days of training following Tottenham’s victory over Coventry, may not be fit to start, while the club will exercise extreme caution with Dejan Kulusevski, who made his first appearance since May 2025 against Frank Lampard’s side. With Tottenham struggling to find consistency, the team is aiming to secure only its second win in 42 matches across all competitions, a statistic that underscores the urgency for De Zerbi to stabilize his squad.
On the other side of the touchline, Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso expressed satisfaction with his team’s improved defensive structure, noting that “emotional control” has been the key to keeping clean sheets. The Blues’ newfound discipline offers a stark contrast to Tottenham’s fragility, setting the stage for a tactical battle where Chelsea’s defensive solidity could exploit Spurs’ depleted options. As both managers prepare for the fixture, the focus shifts to how De Zerbi will manage his limited resources against a Chelsea side that has found a rare rhythm in recent weeks.
Source: The Guardian Sport
