New Spurs coach Roberto De Zerbi has expressed regret for his previous remarks regarding Mason Greenwood, whom he had described as a «good guy.»
The new Tottenham boss stated that he apologizes if his words had offended anyone and reiterated his commitment to standing up for the vulnerable in society, in his first interview since taking on the role at the club.
Greenwood made the move to Marseille from Manchester United in 2024 following the dropping of charges against him, which included allegations of attempted rape and assault.
In a statement last November, De Zerbi had characterized his player as a «good guy» who had faced significant consequences.
He further commented, «It saddens me to see what transpired in his life, as I know a completely different individual than the one portrayed.»
Following his appointment at Spurs this week, fan groups have voiced opposition with ‘No to De Zerbi’ declarations due to his defense of Greenwood.
In his initial interview with Tottenham’s internal media, De Zerbi conveyed in Italian: «I have never intended to diminish the seriousness of violence against women or any form of violence, more broadly.
«Throughout my life, I have consistently advocated for those who are vulnerable, those who are fragile. I have always fought and taken a stand to support those who are most at risk.
«Those who are familiar with me will know that I am not someone who compromises integrity for the sake of winning games or titles.
«I offer my apologies to those who may have been offended by my statements. I am a father and am deeply attuned to these issues, always have been.
«I hope that with time, people will come to understand me better and realize that my intentions were not to take a controversial stance at that moment.»
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The Crown Prosecution Service dropped the charges against Greenwood in February 2023 due to «a combination of the withdrawal of key witnesses and new evidence coming to light.»