DE ZERBI FACES MORE QUESTIONS AS TOTTENHAM’S ATTACKING PROBLEMS CONTINUE
Roberto De Zerbi has been left with even more to consider after Tottenham suffered their third defeat of the season, losing 3-1 to Liverpool at Anfield on Tuesday and exiting the Carabao Cup.
Spurs struggled to take control of the match and once again failed to make their possession count in the final third. Despite creating several opportunities, Tottenham lacked the composure and finishing quality needed to turn those chances into goals.
With De Zerbi rotating his squad and giving several fringe players an opportunity to impress, few managed to make a strong enough case for a regular starting spot. The manager could now be considering changes ahead of Tottenham’s next Premier League fixture.
⚠️ ATTACKING PROBLEMS EXPOSED AGAIN
Mohammed Kudus, making only his second start of 2026 following a lengthy injury absence, showed signs that he is still working his way back to full fitness.
The Ghanaian registered three shots but managed just one on target and missed a major opportunity. His success rate from attempted crosses and dribbles was also low.
Tottenham actually produced more shots than Andoni Iraola’s Liverpool, but the difference came down to efficiency. Spurs failed to capitalise on their better opportunities, while Liverpool were more clinical when their chances arrived.
😬 IS MATHYS TEL HEADING TOWARDS A WERNER-LIKE STRUGGLE?
Tottenham’s problems in front of goal are nothing new. Timo Werner scored only three goals in 41 appearances for the club between 2023 and 2025 and struggled to win over supporters.
Mathys Tel is now facing similar scrutiny.
The 21-year-old has gone eight matches without registering a goal or assist and has scored just five times across his last 46 appearances.
Tel was handed a starting role against Liverpool but failed to make the desired impact. He played 85 minutes, completed 71% of his passes, lost possession 17 times, failed to register a shot on target and created no chances. Only 40% of his dribbles were successful, while he recorded just 38 touches.
His display was rated among Tottenham’s weakest performances on the night.
The result is likely to increase the pressure on Tel’s position in De Zerbi’s starting XI. If his attacking numbers do not improve soon, the youngster could face increased competition for his place as the manager searches for greater goal threat and consistency in the final third.
