Paul Merson has expressed concern over Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi's public criticism of his medical staff and forward players following a goalless draw against Nottingham Forest.

Following Tottenham Hotspur's 0-0 draw with Nottingham Forest, manager Roberto De Zerbi publicly criticized his team's attacking decision-making and his medical staff's influence on substitutions. Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson stated that such comments should remain internal, noting that De Zerbi's behavior raises concerns about his management style and potential friction within the club.

Criticism of Medical Staff and Substitutions

De Zerbi expressed dissatisfaction after being advised by his medical team to substitute Savio and Destiny Udogie at the 60-minute mark. The manager stated he was 'not happy' with the decision, noting that the substitutions disrupted the team's balance and connection on the pitch. While he acknowledged that replacements Mohammed Kudus and Andy Robertson performed well, he emphasized that players coming off the bench often struggle to adapt immediately to the game's pace. De Zerbi explained that the medical staff's caution was intended to prevent further injuries to key players, stating, 'we can't take risk to injury again.' Merson, however, compared the situation to Enzo Maresca’s tenure at Chelsea, where public disputes with medical staff preceded a managerial departure. Merson questioned whether De Zerbi was attempting to shift blame, though he noted that a manager ultimately holds the authority to decide when players are replaced.

Attacking Performance Concerns

In addition to his comments on the medical staff, De Zerbi criticized his forward players for their performance in the final third. He argued that the team failed to make the 'right decision' during key attacking moments, citing specific instances involving Omar Marmoush, Mathys Tel, and Savio. De Zerbi suggested that the team lacked the necessary calmness to capitalize on scoring opportunities. Merson challenged this assessment, noting that Tottenham did not create a high volume of chances and failed to register a single shot on target during the match. He suggested that the team's current mentality requires patience, noting that the club has finished 17th in consecutive seasons and cannot expect an immediate turnaround.