Roberto De Zerbi's philosophy and the influence of his roots in Brescia on his career with Tottenham

According toBBC.

Background

Roberto De Zerbi, who grew up in Brescia, is an example of how the surrounding environment can influence the careers of coaches and players. Sander Tonali, who started his career at Brescia, represents a bridge between the past and the present in Italian football.

Why is this important?

Roberto De Zerbi's impact on Tottenham goes beyond just results on the field, as his passion for football reflects his roots at Brescia. This passion may be key to rebuilding the club after its financial crises, reflecting the importance of cultural identity in the world of football.

Key points

Roberto De Zerbi's philosophy and the influence of his roots in Brescia on his career with Tottenham.
The influences of Roberto De Zerbi's Brescia roots are clearly evident in his coaching philosophy at Tottenham, as he speaks of the influence of his father and his love of football in shaping his career.
Roberto de Zerbi's 'ultra' ethos and the Brescia roots now aiding Spurs - BBC Sport.

Recently, the echoes of Brescia have been clearly evident at Tottenham's stadium. Although the city's old club was declared bankrupt this week, the footballing passion born at the Mario Rigamonti Stadium may be what brings Tottenham back to life. Roberto De Zerbi, the coach who saved Tottenham from relegation last season, grew up in the stands at Brescia with his father Alfredo, who was president of the supporters' clubs. De Zerbe says he was born an 'ultra', explaining: "My father is crazy about football. He was one of Brescia's cheerleaders, and at home we lived and breathed football. He passed this passion on to me."

Brescia's links with Tottenham also overlap through players in the squad. Sander Tonali, the most expensive signing in the club's history, joined Brescia when he was 12 and made his debut at 17, helping Brescia return to Serie A before moving to Milan in 2020. De Zerbe has been following Tonali's career and is proud of what he has achieved, as Tonali spoke of the bond that unites them, explaining: "Brescia is a small city. I only spent two weeks there and met him two or three times."

However, Tonali's £100m move could create controversy in Italy. Brescia was excluded from professional football due to debts and financial problems, and was replaced by a new club under the name Brescia Union, which plays in the same historic stadium that witnessed the brilliance of players such as Roberto Baggio and Pep Guardiola.

Tonali and his wife, who came to watch Union Brescia in the qualifying matches, spoke about the challenges the club faced. Brescia was supposed to receive a percentage of the value of Tonali's transfer, but with the club's bankruptcy declared, the family's hopes were dashed. Roberto's "love for Brescia shaped his career," says De Zerbi's brother, Rocco.

De Zerbe's memories go back to his childhood days, where he would follow his father to all matches, and express his passion for football by preparing match signs. When he was 12 years old, he moved to Milan, where his father hoped to see him play for Brescia one day, which was achieved when he played 19 matches for the club in 2008.

His experience as a coach began in his hometown, where he helped his friends train youngsters. However, the principles that guide him today go back to the difficult times his family went through in the crisis of the 1990s, when his father had to sell their factory. This helped him understand the value of hard work and success.

After signing his first professional contract, De Zerbe was at the bank to sign a loan to buy a house for his parents. De Zerbe shows that despite his success, he has not abandoned his principles and morals, as he believes in helping others and supports social causes.

What's next?

As De Zerbe continues to lead Tottenham, he is expected to continue strengthening the links between the club and its Italian roots. The team may also see more investment in players who share the same passion, enhancing their chances of future success.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened with Brescia Club?

Brescia were declared bankrupt this week, ruling them out of professional football.

Who confirmed Brescia's influence on Roberto De Zerbi?

Roberto De Zerbi himself confirmed that his passion for football stemmed from his father, who was the president of the fan clubs in Brescia.

Why are Brescia's links to Tottenham being talked about now?

Talk of Brescia's links to Tottenham comes after De Zerbe saved Tottenham from relegation last season, reflecting the influence of his roots in Brescia.

What changes have occurred at Brescia Club?

Brescia has been replaced by a new club under the name Brescia Union, which plays in the same historic stadium.

How does Sander Tonali's transfer affect Brescia?

Tonali's £100 million transfer could cause controversy in Italy, as Brescia was supposed to receive a percentage of the deal's value, but the family's hopes were dashed after the club was declared bankrupt.