Tottenham Hotspur coach Roberto De Zerbi has had a rough start to the season, and his team's performance on the pitch has led to increased scrutiny from fans and the media.
The Italian oversaw a second successive goalless draw with Spurs, as they were held by Everton in front of their fans in north London. In his post-match press conference and interview, he appeared to laud himself for coaching a side that has managed to keep back-to-back clean sheets in the league.
Despite a record outlay this summer, De Zerbi has yet to see his side score a goal or win a game, as they have managed to pick up just two points from their four games thus far.
His words to the media on Saturday left some fans fuming, and a number of reactions were captured on X.
WHAT ROBERTO DE ZERBI SAID AFTER THE GAME
Roberto De Zerbi appeared to be asking for some credit when he spoke to the reporters after the drab draw at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
The Italian tactician made a point to those present that if he were back home in Italy, he would be seen as the best coach because his team has not conceded a single goal in the last two games.
“In Italy, for example, I would be the best coach in the world… because I achieved two clean sheets in the last two matches!," he said.
Italian football is more fixated on the defensive side of the game, something that De Zerbi's side has managed very well in their last two games.
Against Nottingham Forest and Everton, they allowed a total of five shots on target and four big chances, largely managing to keep their opponents at bay.
Spurs can build on their new-found defensive solidity as a platform for success under De Zerbi, who helped them to beat the drop last season.
FANS QUESTION 'RIDICULOUS' TAKE BY TOTTENHAM BOSS
Tottenham fans were not in agreement with Roberto De Zerbi after his press conference, and they took to social media to share their thoughts on the subject.
One of them pointed out that the club brings out the worst from its coaches in press conferences, pointing to an earlier instance involving Antonio Conte. "Tottenham really do bring the worst out of managers in press conferences."
Another fan stated that the former Brighton & Hove Albion boss has been afflicted by the 'Tottenham infection'. "Seems the Tottenham infection is affecting this dude."
A fan also added that they found De Zerbi's claims to be ridiculous. "It's ridiculous. Never seen one more propped up by the press than this one here."
De Zerbi's side have now failed to score in any of their first four games to start a league season for the first time in the history of the club despite a record summer spending.
The likes of Savinho, Omar Marmoush, Mateus Fernandes, and Sandro Tonali all featured from the start as Spurs were held scoreless by Everton.
