Tottenham fans oppose to possible arrival of Roberto De Zerbi, targeted for his support of Mason Greenwood at OM.
Roberto De Zerbi hasn’t even been appointed yet, but his name is already causing tension among some at Tottenham. While the former OM coach is being considered to succeed Igor Tudor as Spurs manager, two groups of fans have taken a stand against this possibility. At the heart of the rejection is his public support of Mason Greenwood during their time together in Marseille.
The strongest statement comes from the Proud Lilywhites, an LGBTQ+ supporters’ group of the club. The tone is set from the start: “We have seen the information linking Roberto De Zerbi to the position at Tottenham and, frankly, it doesn’t sit well.” The text emphasizes that the debate is not just about the field. “It’s not just about results or style of football. It’s about values, identity, and the kind of people we choose to represent us.”
This is precisely where De Zerbi finds himself exposed. In Marseille, the Italian openly defended Mason Greenwood, a move not taken lightly in England, where the issue remains highly sensitive. Greenwood had been accused of domestic violence by his partner, including allegations of physical and sexual abuse. He was not convicted as the legal proceedings ended after the withdrawal of the complaints. Since then, Greenwood and his partner have reconciled and had children. Legally, the case is closed, but in the English public opinion, it’s far from over.
Greenwood, still persona non grata at home
The statement from the Tottenham fans makes it very clear. “Football does not exist in a vacuum. Clubs set standards, whether they like it or not.” Further on, the text highlights that the manager sets the tone daily by what he says, what he tolerates, and what he defends. This is a direct hit at De Zerbi, whose comments on Greenwood have resonated far beyond Marseille.
Perhaps the most accusatory passage is this: “When someone in this position publicly defends a player like Mason Greenwood and presents it in a way that downplays the seriousness of what happened, it matters.” The entire logic of the statement hinges on this. The signatories explain that the issue is not just about judging a manager on their skills, but also on the message sent by their appointment.
They further add: “We are proud of the progress made to make football more inclusive and welcoming. This progress matters and cannot be compromised.” Then comes the straightforward conclusion: “We are not asking for perfection. We demand responsibility, transparency, and leadership that reflects the values this club claims to uphold.” Followed by the final statement: “Not De Zerbi.”
This episode speaks volumes about Greenwood’s place in English football. Even at a distance, even indirectly, his name still triggers immediate opposition. It is further evidence that he remains largely unwelcome in England, both in public opinion and in the high-level football environment.
