At a glance
- Tottenham have appointed Roberto De Zerbi on a 5-year deal
- The Italian was viewed as a potential successor to Eddie Howe
- Newcastle missed key opportunity in managerial market
Newcastle United have missed out on a potential long-term successor to Eddie Howe, with Tottenham Hotspur officially appointing Roberto De Zerbi as the new head coach.
The Italian has signed a long-term deal in North London, with Spurs moving decisively to secure one of Europe’s most highly regarded coaches.
De Zerbi was available after leaving Marseille last month, and his name appeared on many English clubs’ shortlists regarding a new manager. But he won’t be taking over at St James’ Park should the Magpies decide to part ways with Howe this summer.
De Zerbi Off to Spurs
De Zerbi has built a strong reputation in recent years, especially during his stint with Premier League side Brighton, where his progressive, possession-based football earned him a lot of praise.
Tottenham had previously identified him as a top managerial target and have acted quickly to bring him in, despite their ongoing relegation battle.
For the Magpies, Spurs’ quick decision-making may turn out to be a missed opportunity. The Italian had been widely viewed as one of the standout managerial candidates capable of stepping into any top Premier League role in the future.
A Missed Long-term Option
While Eddie Howe is still in charge and continues to be backed, conversations around Newcastle’s long-term direction are inevitable given the club’s ambition.
The Italian coach’s profile and style would have been a great fit at St James’ Park. He emphasises structured build-up play, modern tactics, and player development that align with the direction Newcastle are heading in.
At a young managerial age of 46, he represents the kind of long-term manager that clubs often look to build around, similarly to what Newcastle did when appointing Howe.
Managerial Market Moving Quickly
Tottenham’s move underlines how quickly the market for a manager can change. A coach who was considered as a potential replacement is now tied down, potentially for a longer time?.
For Newcastle, though. It serves as a reminder that elite managers do not remain in the market for long. While there is no immediate need for change, missing out on a candidate like De Zerbi could be viewed as a lost opportunity to explore a new option in the future.
But if Howe can get Newcastle back on track, there might not need to be a change of manager. But if the club ever looks for its next change in the dugout, one of the best candidates is no longer an option.
