adminRoberto De Zerbi has made it clear that midfielders Rodrigo Bentancur and Pape Matar Sarr remain central to his Tottenham plans, while also shedding light on why neither joined the squad for the club’s pre-season tour.
The pair were noticeably absent when Spurs departed for their overseas fixtures, sparking questions among fans about possible fitness issues or even transfer rumors.
But De Zerbi was quick to shut down such speculation, emphasizing that both players are essential to his midfield structure.
As relayed by Last Word on Spurs on X, the manager explained that each player’s summer routine was tailored individually, especially given their heavy international commitments after the World Cup:
“Bentancur is a crucial player for us, and Pape Sarr, the same. I spoke after the World Cup with players, and for every one of them we take different ways.”
For Bentancur, the extended break was all about recovery. The Uruguayan endured a grueling season and asked for extra time off to recharge both physically and mentally before diving into another demanding Premier League campaign. De Zerbi noted:
“Bentancur asked me for one week more because he suffered a very tough season last season.”
As for Sarr, his delayed return was due to a personal family matter back in Senegal. The young midfielder remains a vital part of De Zerbi’s high-energy system, and the coach was keen to reassure supporters that there’s no underlying issue:
“Pape Sarr has a personal problem, and he asked me for one week more. But nothing, no problem, nothing more than I said.”
Both players are expected to rejoin training at Hotspur Way once the team is back in London, giving De Zerbi his full midfield options just as preparations ramp up for the season opener.
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