Just when it looked like Tottenham's ship was about to sink for good, Roberto de Zerbi has thrown out the lifeboats. And what a difference a few weeks can make.
What De Zerbi has done isn't rocket science—it's football management at its purest. He's reminded struggling players of their strengths, given clear instructions to those lacking confidence, and led a squad fighting relegation into battle with renewed purpose. Sometimes the basics are all you need.
Credit where it's due: the Italian has sparked a revival we haven't seen since Ange Postecoglou's emotional team talk before last year's Europa League final. The new manager bounce is real, and Tottenham are finally reaping the rewards.
The proof was in the performance against Aston Villa. Conor Gallagher and Joao Palhinha battled for every ball in midfield, setting the tone for a commanding display. Up front, "Relegation Richarlison" embraced his role as the lone striker, running tirelessly and grabbing a goal in Dominic Solanke's absence. Even Randal Kolo Muani, who has struggled to find his rhythm all season, turned in one of his best performances.
Listening to the match on the radio, you could feel the energy. The relentless pressing was matched only by the roar of the away fans, creating a unity that stretched from the pitch to the stands. Misery loves company, but so does joy—and the players fed off that positive energy.
As supporters celebrated with a near-constant chant of "Tottenham away, ole ole," De Zerbi's next challenge became clear: can he replicate this form at home?
The tide may have turned, but we're not in safe waters just yet. Survival is still a fight, and every point counts.