Tottenham head coach Roberto De Zerbi believes Sandro Tonali may require more time to adapt after his move to the London club from Newcastle.
“Perhaps Tonali needs more time to adapt,” De Zerbi said in a comment about the midfielder.
Tottenham signed Tonali from Newcastle during the summer transfer window, paying 108 million euros for the 26-year-old. The Italy international has played in two Premier League matches for his new club so far, but has yet to register a goal or an assist.
Tonali’s early involvement has therefore come without a direct contribution in front of goal, while De Zerbi has indicated that the midfielder may need additional time to adjust to his new surroundings at Tottenham.
The transfer represents a major investment by Spurs, who brought Tonali in from Newcastle for a reported fee of 108 million euros. Despite that price tag, De Zerbi’s assessment suggests the club is prepared to allow the player time to become accustomed to his new team and the demands of his role.
Tottenham’s next opportunity to use Tonali will come on 5 September, when they travel to face Nottingham Forest. The Premier League match is scheduled to begin at 17:00 Moscow time.
Tonali has made two appearances in the competition since joining Tottenham, although neither has resulted in a goal or assist. The visit to Nottingham Forest will provide another chance for him to continue his introduction to the team and for De Zerbi to assess his progress.
For now, the Tottenham manager’s message is one of patience. Tonali remains at the beginning of his spell with the London club, having arrived only in the summer transfer window, and the coach believes adaptation may take longer before the midfielder fully finds his rhythm.
The fixture against Nottingham Forest is Tottenham’s next scheduled Premier League match and will be played away from home. It is set to take place on 5 September, with kick-off at 17:00 Moscow time.