{
  "id": 8481251,
  "title": "How can 'fragile' Tottenham Hotspur turn things around?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/19/how-can-fragile-tottenham-hotspur-turn-things-around",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-19T14:59:33.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/fragile-tottenham-hotspur-turn-things-145933675.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Tottenham Hotspur's recent performance has been concerning, with the team recording their worst-ever start to a Premier League season after just five games. Manager Roberto De Zerbi has acknowledged their fragility, stating that if they are not strong, they will lose. A crucial moment came when a poor defensive clearance gave Aston Villa the lead at halftime. Despite starting the first half with promise and energy, Tottenham crumbled in the second half, displaying a lack of belief and resilience when facing adversity. Throughout the season, losing their first two games has proven difficult for the team to recover from. Despite spending over $430 million on new signings, the core players remain, suggesting that the fragility is deeply ingrained in the team. To address this issue, Spurs might consider playing more of their new signings who are less prone to the same fragility. Switching to a back three could also benefit defenders Pedro Porro and Andy Robertson, allowing them to focus on getting on the ball in the final third. Allowing midfielders Savio and Mohammed Kudus freedom to roam would provide more attacking options. The biggest risk is De Zerbi sticking with his current strategy, which may change over the international break, but patience and faith in his abilities are crucial. The team's performance against Manchester United, Coventry City, Chelsea, and Crystal Palace in the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining whether there is a chance for improvement.",
  "summary": "Spurs keep crumbling but are they really set for another relegation scrap?",
  "key_points": [
    "Tottenham Hotspur's start to Premier League season is their worst ever.",
    "Manager Roberto De Zerbi acknowledges team's fragility.",
    "Switching to back three and playing new signings could help."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}