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De Zerbi blames Tottenham’s injury-hit lack of presence

8/26/2026

26 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Brentford Crush Spurs

Tottenham Hotspur lost 3-0 to Brentford on August 22, 2026.
Keane Lewis-Potter, Vitaly Janelt and Michael Kayode each scored for Brentford.
Manager Roberto De Zerbi said the team lacked physical presence.
Roberto De Zerbi noted injuries to Pedro Porro, Micky van de Ven, Dominic Solanke and James Maddison.
New signing Sávio completed paperwork and is eligible for the Charlton Cup tie.

Summary

Zerby Awaits Sávio

De Zerby said he must wait for Sávio to become match-ready.
He praised Sávio’s one-on-one dribbling and ability to play on both flanks.
He warned Sávio must improve finishing to reach elite wingers’ 10-15 goals.
He noted four new signings started the Brentford game, showing rapid squad integration despite setbacks.

Summary

Tottenham Snags Sávio

Tottenham paid £75 million upfront for Sávio.
Manchester City recorded a £44.2 million profit after selling Sávio, whose original fee was £30.8 million.
The deal contains add-on clauses that could raise Sávio’s total cost to £85 million.
Sávio scored two goals in 53 matches for City but posted 11 goals and 10 assists on loan at Girona.
Upon joining Tottenham, the Brazilian announced he will be known as Sávio, reverting to his Girona moniker.

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Brentford Crush Spurs

Tottenham Hotspur lost 3-0 to Brentford on August 22, 2026.
Keane Lewis-Potter, Vitaly Janelt and Michael Kayode each scored for Brentford.
Manager Roberto De Zerbi said the team lacked physical presence.
Roberto De Zerbi noted injuries to Pedro Porro, Micky van de Ven, Dominic Solanke and James Maddison.
New signing Sávio completed paperwork and is eligible for the Charlton Cup tie.

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