De Zerbi unsure about Richarlison’s Tottenham future
Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi confessed he does not know whether forward Richarlison will remain at the club beyond this summer. The Brazilian, whose contract runs out next year, has sent mixed signals about his intentions, leaving the situation unclear.
De Zerbi spoke ahead of the Sydney Super Cup clash with Chelsea, saying the club would respect whatever decision the striker eventually makes. He added that he likes Richarlison both as a player and as a person, praising his attitude and behaviour on and off the pitch.
When pressed directly about whether Richarlison wants to leave, De Zerbi replied: “I don’t know. Sometimes he says he wants to stay, sometimes he wants to leave. We will keep talking – there is no problem. He’s a lovely guy.”
Richarlison’s late winner seals victory
Despite the uncertainty, Richarlison proved his worth off the bench, scoring a dramatic stoppage‑time winner as ten‑man Spurs defeated Chelsea 2‑1. His goal came after Jamie Donley’s effort hit the post, allowing the Brazilian to pounce on the rebound in the 92nd minute.
The win extended De Zerbi’s unbeaten start as Tottenham head coach. Sandro Tonali opened the scoring early, with an effort that deflected off Levi Colwill, before Chelsea levelled through Estêvão. Kevin Danso’s second‑half red card left Spurs a man down, but goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky made two crucial saves to keep the match alive.
De Zerbi highlighted Richarlison’s overall contribution, noting that the striker netted 12 goals during a challenging 2025‑26 season. “He scores goals, he knows the way, and we love his work ethic,” the Italian said, adding that finding a replacement of his calibre would not be easy.
The result comes as Tottenham continues an ambitious summer rebuild, having already spent a club‑record £237 million on new signings. Links remain with Manchester City’s Savinho and Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo as the club seeks further attacking options.
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