With Roberto De Zerbi set to take charge of his first full season, we have predicted how his Tottenham leadership group could shape up.
There is no doubt that the Tottenham Hotspur squad is set to look very different from what it was last campaign given Spurs’ transfer activity thus far.
We have already seen six new additions, with Marcos Senesi, Sandro Tonali, Mateus Fernandes, Jan Paul van Hecke, Andy Robertson and Martin Dubravka all joining Spurs.
Tottenham have also moved on a few players, with Alejo Veliz already sold, while sales agreements have been reached with Brighton for Vuskovic and Fiorentina for Radu Dragusin.
A few more sales could still be completed as Tottenham embarks on their summer rebuild. That could also see a few members of the Spurs leadership group leaving, with Cristian Romero and Guglielmo Vicario linked with exits.
Thomas Frank, who was appointed last season, was the one who settled with the club’s current leadership group, but with him gone and Roberto De Zerbi set for his first full season, things could well change now.
Spurs Web have now decided to attempt to predict what De Zerbi’s picks may be.
James Maddison could lead Tottenham again
The Englishman has been at Tottenham for three seasons now, but his campaign last term was severely hindered by a long-term ACL injury.
However, he should be fit and ready to begin this next campaign under Roberto De Zerbi from the start, with pre-season preparations set to begin on July 10.
Maddison makes sense as a perfect name to be included in De Zerbi’s core leadership group, having been part of last season’s five picks, where he was vice-captain.
He has strong connections with the Spurs fans and is never shy to speak up and defend the club. Maddison’s recent message to Tonali after his arrival has also sparked speculation that he may well be involved in the leadership group, having spoken like a leader in his welcome message.
Micky van de Ven the obvious captaincy candidate
The Dutchman stands as the most obvious of picks given that he captained Tottenham a total of six times last season.
He did so several times under De Zerbi as well, in the absence of Cristian Romero and Guglielmo Vicario.
With both linked with exits, there is every reason to believe that van de Ven will be in contention for a vice-captain or captain role next season.
Sandro Tonali brings leadership pedigree to Tottenham
Tottenham’s new signing Sandro Tonali is one who could go straight into a leadership role following his big-money move.
Tonali is a seasoned international who has played at the highest level, representing AC Milan and Newcastle while winning silverware along the way.
The 26-year-old also has experience as a captain, having led the Italy U21 side in the past. While at AC Milan, he was touted as a future captain given his displays and commitment to the badge.
Spurs will certainly be hoping the Italian can step up as a leader, given he is one of the more experienced players in the group.
Pedro Porro has earned Roberto De Zerbi’s trust
While not in the leadership group last season, many felt he was unlucky to have missed out.
The full-back, while prone to the odd error, leaves everything on the pitch for Tottenham, and that was evident last season during the run-in.
He was one of Spurs’ better players, and Porro’s hard work has been rewarded with a new contract on improved terms.
Committing his future to Tottenham despite interest from Manchester City and Real Madrid clearly shows where his head is at.
De Zerbi also revealed that Porro’s mentality and determination are qualities he values. He said following Porro’s new deal:
“Pedro is a very important player for us, who has consistently shown his ability to influence matches in both defensive and attacking situations.
“As well as his technical quality, I also love his mentality. Every day he wants to work, to learn and to improve, and these are the characteristics that help players reach the highest level.
“He understands football in a very intelligent way, and brings energy, intensity and personality to the team. This new contract is good news for everyone at the Club. We believe in Pedro, and I am excited to continue working with him and helping him achieve even more in the coming years.”
Ben Davies remains a steady presence at Tottenham
There is a clear focus on experience in the squad ahead of next season, highlighted by the signings made.
Davies, whose contract was set to expire this summer, was handed a one-year renewal, underlining how much his experience will be needed.
The Welshman is often regarded as a leader, someone who helps new players settle in the dressing room.
It is unlikely he will feature heavily on the pitch, meaning most of his influence will come in a leadership role behind the scenes.
He was part of last season’s leadership group, and there is every reason to believe he will be included once more.
There is even talk of Davies moving into a coaching role when his time at Spurs ends, which only solidifies his reputation as a leader.