Roberto De Zerbi apologizes to Tottenham supporters for comments about Greenwood
Roberto De Zerbi has expressed regret to Tottenham Hotspur supporters who were upset by his previous remarks regarding Mason Greenwood during his tenure as head coach at Marseille, emphasizing that he would never intentionally minimize the issue of violence against women.
De Zerbi encountered backlash from several Tottenham fan groups in the days leading up to his appointment as manager on Tuesday, due to his favorable comments about former Manchester United player Greenwood during their time at Marseille.
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Greenwood was charged in October 2022 with attempted rape, controlling and coercive behavior, and assault following the release of images and videos online.
British prosecutors dropped the charges in February 2023 due to a “combination of the withdrawal of key witnesses” and a “lack of realistic prospect of conviction.”
“I have never intended to downplay the issue of violence against women, or violence against anyone in general,” De Zerbi stated in Italian during a video interview with Tottenham’s media released on Thursday. “Throughout my life, I have always advocated for those who are more vulnerable and fragile.
“I have consistently fought and taken a stand to support those who are most at risk. Those who know me well understand that I am not someone who compromises to achieve more victories or to secure an additional title.
“I apologize if I hurt anyone’s feelings regarding this matter. I have a daughter and I am very sensitive to these issues, and I always have been.
“I hope that in time, people will come to know me better and will recognize that at that moment, I did not intend to take a stance.”
During their time at Marseille, De Zerbi referred to Greenwood as a “good guy” who “suffered greatly for what occurred,” adding: “I regret what transpired in his life because I know someone different from the portrayal, particularly in England.”
Following increased speculation about De Zerbi last week, Proud Lilywhites, Women of the Lane, and Spurs Reach issued “No to De Zerbi” statements, but the Italian was ultimately appointed.
The Tottenham Hotspur Supporters’ Trust promptly expressed that they had “serious and far-reaching concerns” regarding De Zerbi’s hiring.
Spurs turned to De Zerbi after interim head coach Igor Tudor was dismissed on Sunday, with the Premier League team sitting in 17th place and only one point above the relegation zone following a challenging season.
PA and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
