De Zerbi Era Begins as Record-Breaking Spurs Kick Off Tour in New Zealand

Tottenham Hotspur have officially launched their pre-season preparations in New Zealand, with head coach Roberto De Zerbi addressing the media in Auckland alongside summer arrival Andy Robertson. Speaking ahead of Sunday’s opening tour fixture against Auckland FC at Eden Park, the Italian manager faces high expectations following an unprecedented spending spree that has completely reshaped the north London squad.

Record Summer Spending

Spurs have made massive moves in the transfer market, committing £237m to strengthen the first-team setup with six new arrivals already secured. The headline acquisition is midfielder Sandro Tonali, who arrived from Newcastle United for a record £92.5m fee plus £7.5m in potential add-ons.

That transaction saw Tottenham break their club transfer record twice within a single week. Prior to Tonali's arrival, Spurs completed an £85m deal for West Ham's Mateus Fernandes. De Zerbi's defensive options have also been bolstered by the £52m capture of Brighton centre-back Jan Paul van Hecke, while free transfers were secured for Robertson, Marcos Senesi, and goalkeeper Martin Dubravka.

Squad Selection and Down Under Tour

De Zerbi has taken a huge 35-man contingent to New Zealand for the first leg of the tour. However, a select group of players remained behind at Hotspur Way, held back either due to fitness issues or to rest following their international commitments at the World Cup.

Following the Eden Park clash against Auckland FC, Tottenham will travel to Australia to complete their pre-season circuit. The remainder of the tour features scheduled friendly fixtures against Sydney FC and Premier League rivals Chelsea.