Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi described his side as “too fragile” after Spurs suffered a 3–2 defeat to Aston Villa at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday.
Spurs created several opportunities during the first half but failed to convert them. Villa then took advantage of Tottenham’s defensive problems, eventually building a 3–0 lead through Johan Manzambi, Nicolas Jackson and Emiliano Buendia. Tottenham scored twice late through Conor Gallagher and Jan Paul van Hecke, but could not complete the comeback.
After the final whistle, De Zerbi shook hands with Villa boss Unai Emery and headed straight down the tunnel instead of remaining on the pitch with his players. His decision attracted criticism from some Spurs supporters, particularly as sections of the home crowd booed the team.
However, De Zerbi did accept some responsibility. Speaking after the match, he said that if Tottenham failed to score despite their first-half chances, “it’s my responsibility.” He also said he was “very disappointed, very sad, very frustrated” with the performance and insisted that Spurs could not lose the game in that manner.
He also criticised Tottenham’s lack of balance and defensive concentration, particularly for Villa’s second goal. De Zerbi said his players needed to become stronger and more disciplined during difficult moments rather than forcing passes and losing possession.
The defeat leaves Tottenham without a Premier League win after five matches, with two points from their opening five games, increasing scrutiny on De Zerbi and his expensive summer rebuild.
