De Zerbi responds to criticism of Greenwood handling in first Spurs interview: ‘I never wanted to downplay the issue; I didn’t mean to take a stance’

Roberto De Zerbi has conducted his inaugural interview as the new head coach of Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur today, following his announcement as Igor Tudor’s replacement on a five-year deal.

Speaking via the club’s official social media accounts, De Zerbi addressed for the first time the backlash he has faced regarding his management of Mason Greenwood during his tenure at Marseille.

Reports earlier this week recirculated comments the Italian coach made late last year, where he reportedly praised Mason Greenwood’s character and expressed sympathy for the former Manchester United forward.

Greenwood was charged with attempted rape, assault, actual bodily harm, and controlling and coercive behaviour in 2022. All charges were subsequently dropped in February of the following year.

De Zerbi: ‘I never wanted to downplay the issue of violence against women’

Speaking in Italian to ensure his message was as clear as possible, particularly in response to concerns voiced by Tottenham Hotspur supporters’ groups regarding his appointment, De Zerbi stated:

‘I have never intended to diminish the seriousness of violence against women, or indeed violence against anyone more broadly.

‘Throughout my life, I have consistently stood up for those who are more vulnerable and fragile. I have always fought and taken a firm stance to support those most at risk.

‘Those of you who know me well will understand that I am not the kind of person who makes compromises just to win more games or an extra title. I am genuinely sorry if I offended anyone’s feelings on this sensitive subject.

‘As a father to a daughter, I am profoundly sensitive to these matters and always have been. I hope that over time, people will get to know me better and will comprehend that my comments at that specific moment were not meant to represent a definitive stance.’