Roberto de Zerbi’s management approach at Tottenham Hotspur appears rooted in his formative years at Brescia, where his father Alfredo served as a leader of the supporters’ clubs. De Zerbi was raised immersed in the club’s culture, attending matches and training sessions from a young age while his father coordinated away trips and managed supporter relations during the 1980s.
The Brescia connection extends to Spurs’ playing roster. Sandro Tonali, the club’s recent record signing at £100m, developed his early career at Brescia before moving to AC Milan in 2020. Both men share ties to the Italian club, having discussed their shared heritage upon reconnecting at Tottenham. Tonali attended Union Brescia matches in the Serie C play-offs earlier this year, demonstrating continued attachment to the city.
Bresia Calcio faced significant financial difficulties and was excluded from professional football by Italian authorities last summer, leading to the creation of Union Brescia as a replacement entity. A court ruling earlier this week resulted in the winding-up of the original Brescia Calcio, ending prospects of revival under previous ownership. The new Union Brescia now operates at the same stadium where both De Zerbi and Tonali developed as footballers.
De Zerbi’s personal philosophy reflects principles shaped during economic hardship in the early 1990s, when his family lost their mat factory and home during Italy’s economic crisis. Accounts of his character describe him as maintaining working-class values and solidarity despite professional success. Observers note his identification with terrace culture and supporter movements, evident in his vocal support for Brescia during a Champions League match while managing Marseille. His approach to management emphasizes loyalty, authenticity, and connection to club communities rather than opportunistic advancement.
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