De Zerbi challenges media over Richarlison’s Tottenham future

Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi has criticised the media for questioning Richarlison’s possible departure during the summer transfer window.

Tottenham are preparing to face Everton on Saturday in the fourth round of the Premier League, with De Zerbi using his pre-match news conference to reject suggestions that he had detailed knowledge of the Brazil international’s situation.

“I did not know that Richarlison was going to leave in the summer,” De Zerbi said. “What I can say is that I know very well what the player did for the club, and what the club did for him. His agent knows that as well. They all know much more than you in the media, by a big difference.”

Richarlison was left out of Tottenham’s Premier League squad under De Zerbi. The manager had previously disclosed that the forward wanted to leave the club.

“He decided everything,” De Zerbi said at the time. “It was not me or the club. I was not responsible for the situation. He decided everything by himself.

“He spoke to me at the beginning of pre-season and told me about his idea and his desire to leave.”

De Zerbi also provided an update on his squad ahead of the meeting with Everton. James Maddison is available to play, while Mohammed Kudus is close to being fully fit and could also be involved.

“Mykhailo Mudryk will miss the game because of an ankle injury,” De Zerbi said. “We need him back as soon as possible because he is an important player for us.”

Tottenham are still without a win in the Premier League this season. They have taken one point from their opening three matches, drawing once and losing twice, and sit 17th in the table.

Everton go into the match in eighth place with five points.

Despite Tottenham’s difficult start, De Zerbi said he remained confident in the players and believed the team was improving.

“We have not won and we have not scored yet, but I am positive and I believe in this group,” he said. “I have the experience to see the improvement.”