De Zerbi explains why Mateus Fernandes was substituted at half-time in Aston Villa defeat
Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi has explained his decision to substitute Mateus Fernandes at half-time during Spurs’ disappointing 3-2 Premier League defeat to Aston Villa.
The result extended Tottenham’s difficult start to the campaign, with Spurs now without a win in their last four league matches and sitting 18th in the table.
Fernandes was named in the starting XI in central midfield but struggled to influence the game during a chaotic first half. Tottenham found it difficult to maintain control, particularly when Villa attacked quickly in transition.
De Zerbi responded at the interval by replacing the Portuguese midfielder with Mohammed Kudus as he looked to change the balance of his team.
Speaking after the match, as reported by Football London, De Zerbi insisted that Fernandes’ substitution was a tactical decision rather than a personal criticism.
«“Mateus is different than Kudus. I have big confidence in Mateus but I didn’t like his performance today. It’s not an attack on him because I love him. I just want more from him, even in that position.”»
De Zerbi demands more from Fernandes
The Italian’s comments underline the high standards he expects from his midfielders, while also making it clear that he continues to have faith in Fernandes.
De Zerbi’s decision to introduce Kudus reflected the different qualities he wanted from his midfield after the break. Kudus offers greater physicality, direct running and the ability to carry the ball past opponents, while Fernandes is expected to contribute through his passing, technical ability and positional discipline.
Against Villa, however, Fernandes struggled to dictate the tempo or find enough space to influence proceedings, leading De Zerbi to make the change at half-time.
Despite being taken off early, Fernandes has not lost the confidence of his manager. De Zerbi’s comments appear to be more of a challenge for the midfielder to improve rather than a sign that he has fallen out of favour.
With Tottenham still trying to find consistency and integrate several new signings into De Zerbi’s system, competition for places is likely to remain intense.
For Fernandes, responding positively to his manager’s criticism could be important as he looks to regain his place in Tottenham’s starting lineup.