‘It was like magic’ – Sandro Tonali details ‘two-hour’ conversation with De Zerbi that convinced him to sign for Tottenham

‘It was like magic’ – Sandro Tonali details ‘two-hour’ conversation with De Zerbi that convinced him to sign for Tottenham

Sandro Tonali has revealed that a single, two-hour conversation with Roberto De Zerbi was all it took to seal his record-breaking move to Tottenham Hotspur.

Speaking publicly for the first time since completing the high-profile transfer from Newcastle United, the Italian midfielder opened up about the decision-making process behind his switch to North London.

Despite attracting serious interest from a host of top clubs across Europe and the Middle East, Tonali insisted his mind was made up from the very start. In quotes shared by The Touchline on X, he made his conviction clear:

“I’m very happy to be here. When I arrived at the Club today, it felt fantastic. People said about there being four or five clubs, there was only one.”

The turning point came during an in-depth conversation with De Zerbi, whose tactical philosophy and long-term vision for Tottenham immediately resonated with the former AC Milan star.

Backed by technical director Johan Lange and new investment from the club’s hierarchy, De Zerbi has been reshaping Spurs’ midfield setup, and Tonali became a cornerstone of that project.

Reflecting on the encounter, Tonali added:

“I spoke to the Head Coach for close to two hours about the Club, the fans, the stadium and our football. It was like magic because I knew immediately that I had to sign for Tottenham. I’ve played against Tottenham a few times and always found a great atmosphere made by great fans. I can’t wait to start the season.”

A New Chapter at Hotspur Way

Securing Tonali is a clear signal of Tottenham’s ambitions as they aim to build a side equipped for consistent Champions League football. His contract reflects that vision, with a significant wage increase tied to the club’s qualification for Europe’s premier competition.

Alongside Tonali’s arrival, the permanent departure of Alfie Devine to Celtic has further reshaped the team’s midfield core. With his official unveiling complete and his first message to supporters delivered, Tonali is now set to join pre-season preparations as the linchpin of De Zerbi’s high-intensity, pressing system.