Roberto De Zerbi gave a clear answer to the question about Richarlison’s future at the club
Roberto De Zerbi says Richarlison’s future at the club is “no longer his problem” and is focusing on preparing his team for the game against Coventry City.
The Brazilian has been left out of the 25-man squad for the Premier League this season and has sought a move away from the club during the summer transfer window, but to no avail.
Richarlison featured for Spurs’ Under-21s against Cheltenham Town in the Jersey Mike’s Trophy, scoring a goal in a 2–2 draw, before which the League 2 side had not won on penalties.
Speaking at a press conference on the forward’s future at the club ahead of this weekend’s clash with Coventry City, De Zerbi said: “It’s not my problem anymore.
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“You should ask Vinai [Venkatesham] or John [Lange]. This is not my problem. As a coach, I know that even if it’s not my responsibility, I have to be supportive and take responsibility.
“In this situation, I have not decided anything, if he wants to talk to me, he can find me in my office until 8:30 in the evening.
“But I don’t want to say any more because I’m focused on the Coventry game.”
Richarlison’s only Premier League appearance this season came in a 3-0 defeat to Brentford, where he managed 68 minutes before being subbed off and has since been left out in the cold.
De Zerbi’s comments follow the Brazilian striker’s recent announcement that he shared a social media post with an article claiming there was a “fight” between the striker and the coach.
Everton icon Duncan Ferguson has been baffled by the backlash against Richarlison as Spurs struggle in the Premier League.
He said: “I don’t know what the Tottenham manager is doing. I don’t know if they have a big rift and knowing Richie (Richardlison) they probably do. But you have to put your arm around him and say ‘Come on Richie’ and bring him back.
“You don’t leave a player like that out (of the squad) unless there’s been real murder: he’s hit him in the jaw or had a proper scrap on the training ground. Richarlison is a good player and Tottenham aren’t that big, are they?”
“It’s all a hands-on platform. You need all your assets there. The manager knows what he’s doing, he’s on the ground, but Richarlison is a great player and I’ve enjoyed working with him.”
In response, Richarlison shared a screenshot with us football.london Quoting his Instagram story: “Thanks @duncan9ferguson. You’re right.”