Richarlison decided Spurs exile himself, claims De Zerbi

Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi expressed his desire to work only with hungry players after excluding Richarlison from his Premier League squad. The Brazilian's future remains uncertain following a proposed return to Everton that reportedly fell through due to wage demands. Richarlison, who was left out of De Zerbi's 25-man squad, has also attracted interest from Turkish and Saudi Arabian clubs, with the transfer window still open.

In a social media post on Monday, Richarlison stated that no one will ever decide his future for him again. However, De Zerbi claimed that the 29-year-old initiated the move himself. The Italian stated that Richarlison spoke with him at the start of the pre-season and explained his intention to leave. De Zerbi emphasized that he cannot take responsibility for Richarlison's decision, adding that the player has the freedom to leave if he no longer wishes to be part of the team.

The manager guided Tottenham to survival in the Premier League last season but has struggled to capitalize on a £300 million transfer spend. Spurs suffered two consecutive opening defeats to Brentford and Newcastle, failing to score either time. Mykhailo Mudryk arrived on a deadline-day loan from Chelsea, having made his last competitive appearance in November 2024.

Mudryk, acquired for £61 million in 2022, was cleared to play after a four-year doping ban was lifted in July. De Zerbi praised Mudryk's potential and believes the Ukrainian is already fit enough to serve as an impact substitute.