# Tottenham Hotspur squad reconstruction

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/tottenham-hotspur-squad-reconstruction
> Updated: 2026-08-13T02:06:15.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2.

Following the clearance of his work permit, Italian midfielder Sandro Tonali joined Tottenham Hotspur’s first-team training sessions at Hotspur Way. The club intended for the record signing to integrate into the squad under head coach Roberto De Zerbi ahead of a pre-season tour of New Zealand and Australia.

Subsequently, De Zerbi detailed his tactical vision for the club, aiming to establish a distinct identity and a “special” style of play centered on passion and organization. De Zerbi identified Tonali as a vital leader and a “pillar” for the team’s rebuilding process, noting that he successfully recruited the midfielder despite competition from Manchester City and Arsenal.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-13: De Zerbi outlines Tottenham's identity and Tonali's leadership role

Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi aims to build a team with a unique identity and “soul,” naming Sandro Tonali as a key leader for the club’s reconstruction efforts.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/de-zerbi-outlines-tottenhams-identity-and-tonalis-leadership-role

### 2026-07-15: Sandro Tonali joins Tottenham training after work permit cleared

Sandro Tonali cleared his work permit and joined Tottenham’s first‑team training, boosting Roberto De Zerbi’s midfield plans and delighting fans ahead of the pre‑season tour.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/sandro-tonali-joins-tottenham-training-after-work-permit-cleared

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Cite as: Tottenham Hotspur squad reconstruction. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/tottenham-hotspur-squad-reconstruction