De Zerbi ‘prevented a disaster’ – Maddison and Vicario hail Spurs’ Italian job

James Maddison has paid a glowing tribute to Roberto De Zerbi after Tottenham Hotspur secured their Premier League survival on the final day of the season, crediting the Italian coach with saving the club from what could have been a catastrophic relegation.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Maddison was effusive. “I’ve been really, really impressed with the manager,” he said. “That appointment saved a disaster from happening to be honest. He’s been living at the training ground. I sleep at the training ground the night before a home game, I’ve got too many kids. He’s there at 9pm with the tactics board.”

“That appointment has saved the disaster from happening”

James Maddison on the impact of Roberto De Zerbi at Tottenham Hotspur pic.twitter.com/Qlknl38ipG

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) May 25, 2026

The sentiment was echoed by Italy international goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, who took to Instagram to post an emotional tribute to the Spurs supporters.

“Thanks a lot,” Vicario wrote. “Without you it wouldn’t have been possible. COYS.”