A very interesting stat perfectly encapsulates how Tottenham have transformed as a side since Roberto De Zerbi arrived through the door.
De Zerbi has made it clear from day one at Spurs that he favours possession-based football, and we have certainly seen a big change in the team’s style of play.
The new Tottenham boss has repeatedly emphasised that the spirit of the squad is more important than the style of play, given the situation the club find themselves in at the moment.
However, with each passing game, we are starting to see the Italian philosophy filter through to the squad, and the numbers are now bearing out the same.
Tottenham have the most effective high press in the Premier League under Roberto De Zerbi
Against Aston Villa, we saw Spurs press with numbers and suffocate the home side, who struggled to get out of their own half for much of the first-half.
According to Opta, Tottenham are winning possession in the final third 5.3 times per game under De Zerbi. That average is higher than every other club in the Premier League so far this season.
Even though this is a small sample size since De Zerbi has only been in charge of four matches, this number gives a clear indication of just how aggressively the Lilywhites are now pressing their opponents.
Spurs could be a major force under De Zerbi next season
There are clear signs that the 46-year-old is bringing the best out of many Tottenham players, and one would only expect Spurs to get better next season once the injured players are available and a few more signings are made.
Given that the Lilywhites will not have European football next season, the squad may be able to cope with the demands of De Zerbi’s high-intensity style of play.
However, the Italian will certainly not be getting carried away just yet, and he will know that his side still has plenty of work to do to secure their Premier League status.