Roberto De Zerbi: Spurs fans angry over Italian’s appointment
This is not the first time that Tottenham have faced major opposition to a managerial appointment.
In June 2021, following the departure of Jose Mourinho, Spurs were linked with Gennaro Gattuso.
Some fans on social media referenced controversial comments previously made by the former Italy midfielder on topics such as gay marriage, externalAnd women in football.
The #NoToGattuso hashtag began trending on Twitter and the Tottenham Hotspur Supporters Trust raised the issue with the club.
Tottenham hit back and said Gattuso was not being considered as a candidate.
There are similarities with De Zerbi.
Trust secretary Tristan Foot told BBC Sport that he has taken supporters’ complaints about the Italian on board and is in contact with the club.
“We had an emergency meeting last night,” Foote said. “As a result we had to write to the chief executive echoing those concerns and inviting him to consider the club’s values.”
Club sources told BBC Sport that De Zerbi’s comments on Greenwood were considered part of his appointment process and formed part of the discussions.
The women at Lane are one of a number of official Spurs fan groups who have expressed concerns on social media in recent days.
It was joined by Proud Lilywhites – the LGBTQI+ supporters association and Spursreach, which promotes the values of fans from under-represented ethnic backgrounds.
Speechly, who helped form Women of the Lane two years ago, said the appointment raised questions about the club’s values and integrity.
“The truth is that he hired him [Greenwood] As a player,” said eloquently.
“And then continue to publicly support him and support him, be sympathetic to him.
“For me, this is absolutely inexcusable. I think it reflects De Zerbi’s character.
“I don’t even want him around my football club.
“It’s about how we feel, it’s about values, it’s about integrity and ultimately, it’s about safety.
“It’s about making women feel like they’re safe with other men.”
Speechly said it undermines the work the club has done to build relationships with minority groups.
“Actions speak louder than words,” Speechly said.
“In terms of my relationship [the club] This has had a massive impact on it.
“To be honest, if they appoint De Zerbi I have no intention of going to the stadium anymore.”
trust issued a statement, external Following De Zerbi’s appointment, his comments were described as “unnecessary, misjudged and extremely offensive to a large number of supporters”.
It added, “It is worrying that the club would leave us in a position of disrepair at exactly the time when the team needs fans the most.”
“If these comments reflect his true views, they cast a disturbing shadow on the values of the club we love.
“The club must reiterate its commitment to the values that fans hold dear – equality, respect and integrity being key among them.
“Our preference would have been the short-term appointment of a person or persons who understood the club.”
Tottenham Hotspur have been contacted for comment.
