Former Super Eagles captain John Mikel Obi has weighed in on Roberto De Zerbi’s appointment at Tottenham Hotspur, expressing surprise that Manchester United did not move for the highly-rated coach.
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Speaking on the managerial shuffle, Mikel admitted that he expected United to make a move for De Zerbi, given his reputation for progressive, attacking football.
“I thought United would go for him,” he said, highlighting the Italian’s growing status in European football.
However, while acknowledging Tottenham as a respectable destination, Mikel pointed out that the club faces significant challenges that De Zerbi will need to address.
“It’s not an easy job,” he implied.
The former midfielder did not hold back in his assessment of Tottenham’s current situation, describing it as serious and in need of urgent improvement.
He even suggested that the club’s struggles have reached a point where rival fans would not want to see them relegated, a reflection of how concerning things have become.
“That’s how bad it is,” he noted.
For Mikel, the key question is whether De Zerbi can turn things around and restore stability to the team.
The manager’s tactical approach and ability to develop players could prove crucial in navigating the club through a difficult period.
As the season progresses, attention will be on how Tottenham responds under new leadership.
For fans, the appointment brings both hope and uncertainty.
And as Mikel’s comments suggest, the pressure will be immediate.
Because in football, expectations do not wait.
And for De Zerbi, the challenge starts now.
