Tottenham boss Roberto De Zerbi wins first Premier League Manager of the Month award
Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi has been named the Premier League Manager of the Month for October following an impressive turnaround in the club's fortunes. The Italian guided Spurs to three victories and one draw during the month, lifting them from the bottom of the Premier League table into the top half.
It is the first time De Zerbi has received theaward, having previously managed Brighton & Hove Albion in the English top flight. He also becomes the first Tottenham manager to win the accolade since Ange Postecoglou claimed three consecutive awards between August and October 2023.
De Zerbi entered October under considerable pressure after Tottenham failed to win any of their opening five league matches. However, his side began their recovery with a dramatic draw against Manchester United, securing a late equaliser despite finishing the match with 10 men.
That result provided the foundation for three successive victories, beginning with a 3-1 home win over newly promoted Coventry City. Tottenham subsequently delivered one of their most impressive performances of the season, defeating London rivals Chelsea 2-0 at Stamford Bridge.
The victory was particularly significant as it represented only their second Premier League win at Chelsea's home ground in 36 years. De Zerbi's side maintained their momentum with another 2-0 victory against Crystal Palace, completing an unbeaten October and strengthening their position in the table.
The Italian expressed his appreciation to the players and club after receiving the award. "I want to say thanks to my players, to my club," De Zerbi said in amessageshared by Tottenham on social media.
His recognition comes after a difficult opening period in North London, during which Spurs struggled to translate their performances into positive results. However, their improved defensive displays and greater attacking efficiency helped transform their fortunes throughout October.
De Zerbi finished ahead of Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, Aston Villa's Unai Emery, Chelsea's Xabi Alonso, Bournemouth's Marco Rose and Brighton's Fabian Hurzeler in the voting. The winner was determined through a combination of public votes and assessments from a panel of football experts.
The award also continues a successful month of individual recognition for Tottenham. Youngster Luca Williams-Barnett received the Premier League's Creative Moment of the Month award, while Tyrese Hall was named Premier League 2 Player of the Month.