“But for me he’s still an important player, because it’s not so easy to find another striker like Richarlison”- Roberto De Zerbi reveals what Richarlison told him about his Tottenham future
Roberto De Zerbi has shared his thoughts on Richarlison’s future, following the Brazilian’s dramatic stoppage-time winner for Tottenham against Chelsea in Sydney on Saturday.
With Spurs reportedly planning several attacking reinforcements before the transfer window closes, further movement in the forward department is expected in the coming weeks.
Despite finishing last season as Tottenham’s top scorer, Richarlison continues to be linked with an exit. The 29-year-old now has just one year remaining on his contract, and his latest goal in Australia once again highlighted his instinct for being in the right place at the right time—a trait clearly valued by his manager.
De Zerbi: Replacing Richarlison Won’t Be Straightforward for Spurs
Recent reports have suggested that Tottenham will only part ways with the former Everton striker once a replacement is secured. De Zerbi believes finding an upgrade won’t be simple, given Richarlison’s proven ability to find the net in the Premier League.
Asked whether he expects the striker to stay or go, De Zerbi told Football.London:
“I don’t know, because I like him as a player, as a guy—his attitude and behaviour are unbelievable. But in the end, we have to respect what he wants to do. And we all know what he wants to do.
“For me, he’s still an important player because it’s not easy to find another striker like Richarlison. He scores goals and he knows how to do it. With a new striker, you don’t know what you’re getting. He scored 12 goals last season—not by luck, but because he knows the way to goal.”
De Zerbi Suggests Richarlison Is Uncertain Over His Spurs Future
According to a recent update from TEAMtalk, Richarlison would prefer to stay in the Premier League if he leaves Spurs this summer. De Zerbi admitted he’s not entirely sure what the player wants and revealed plans for further discussions with the Brazilian.
When asked if Richarlison is pushing to leave, the Italian replied:
“I don’t know—I haven’t understood clearly, because sometimes he says he wants to stay, sometimes he says he wants to leave. We’ll have to talk. There’s no problem—he’s a lovely guy. Everyone loves him—the teammates, the club, the staff—because he works hard every single day, seriously, and we can’t fault him on the pitch.”