Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi stages team dinner with alcohol to boost morale amid relegation fight

Roberto De Zerbi, the Italian head coach of Tottenham Hotspur, said he took the squad to a dinner with alcoholic drinks at the Bacchanalia restaurant in Mayfair after a 1‑0 defeat to Sunderland, his first match in charge. He described finding players crying and lying on the floor in the dressing room and asked, “Shall we die?” as a way to confront the anxiety of a possible drop to the second division.

De Zerbi explained that the dinner was intended to restore unity and positivity, noting that “alcohol is a good remedy” when enjoyed responsibly. He believes the approach helped lift the team’s spirits and contributed to Tottenham ultimately avoiding relegation in the Premier League. The manager will remain in charge for the 2026‑27 season, with new signings such as Sandro Tonali and Van Hecke joining the squad.