Tottenham boss Roberto De Zerbi has revealed exactly what Luca Williams-Barnett must do to take his game to the next level.
Tottenham Hotspur have not been afraid to let a few of their youngsters leave the club permanently this summer transfer window.
At the moment, Alfie Devine, Will Lankshear and Tynan Thompson stand as players who came through the academy ranks and have secured permanent moves.
More such exits could still come, as several other academy graduates continue to attract interest from clubs across Europe.
Ashley Phillips is on the radar of Middlesbrough, Mikey Moore is eyed by Borussia Dortmund, while Alfie Dorrington is looking for a move to a club in England.
De Zerbi admits Williams‑Barnett is a big talent
This exodus of academy players has left sections of the Tottenham fanbase concerned, with many fearing the youth ranks are being neglected.
Regardless, Spurs still have quality within their ranks, and that has been on display this pre-season with several youngsters being handed a chance – many of whom have lived up to expectation.
Luca Williams‑Barnett is one such youngster Tottenham have high hopes for, with the midfielder showing great potential and immense quality.
Tottenham boss Roberto De Zerbi is not oblivious to this fact and has now revealed what Williams‑Barnett must do to reach the next level.
Speaking to football.london, he said: “Luca is a big talent, very young, big talent. Malachi [Hardy] is another good player for the future of the club. We cannot forget the young players, especially for the new rules, the financial fair play, or the rules of the Champions League, Europa League.
“And then we have to improve our academy. We have to help them produce more players, because we need it and it is important for the club.”
Williams‑Barnett impresses again
Williams‑Barnett has certainly impressed in pre-season, and the building blocks are in place for him to take a big next step.
Many Tottenham fans were left delighted following the youngster’s standout display against MK Dons in Spurs’ first pre-season friendly. The teenager showed immense quality, creating chances and showing a desire to always receive the ball.
Against Auckland, he was just as impressive. FotMob handed Williams‑Barnett a rating of 6.8 after he featured for 63 minutes.
Williams‑Barnett vs Auckland FC
| Metric | Number |
|---|---|
| Accurate passes | 19/22 (86%) |
| Defensive contributions | 1 |
| Touches | 43 |
| Touches in opposition box | 5 |
| Successful dribbles | 1/1 (100%) |
| Passes into final third | 2 |
| Ground duels won | 4/5 (80%) |
| Aerial duels won | 1/1 (100%) |