Tottenham Hotspur midfielder James Maddison has voiced his enthusiasm for working under new manager Roberto De Zerbi, confident that the Italian's attacking philosophy will align with his playing style. De Zerbi, 47, took charge in March and steered Spurs to Premier League safety with a 17th-place finish.
Speaking on Tuesday, the 29-year-old Maddison explained De Zerbi's approach for his first full season. "The manager is very clear. The goals are to be better, to play better football, to be passionate and to be proud to play for this club,” he stated.
Maddison, who returned from an anterior cruciate knee ligament injury late last season, confirmed the immediate focus is on building momentum for Spurs' Premier League opener against Brentford on 22 August. The club has begun its pre-season tour, securing a 2-0 victory over Auckland FC on Sunday, and is set to face Sydney FC on Wednesday before a clash with Chelsea.