Wait — the fixture list has thrown up an awkward twist for Tottenham: an international break landing right when Roberto de Zerbi could least afford it.
According to BBC Sport columnist Tony Pulis, the timing couldn't be worse for the Spurs boss, who is still trying to stitch together a coherent squad identity. Pulis argues De Zerbi needs uninterrupted time on the training ground with his players to instil his ideas properly, something a mid-season pause makes difficult, especially with new faces still adapting to his methods.
Pulis points out that building a "proper team" isn't just about picking a starting XI — it's about repetition, understanding of roles, and collective habits that only come from regular work together. With players scattered on international duty, that momentum is disrupted just as De Zerbi looks to be finding his rhythm at Tottenham.
The break, Pulis suggests, risks stalling progress rather than offering a welcome rest, leaving De Zerbi to pick up the pieces again once his squad reconvenes.