Mateus Fernandes reveals how De Zerbi convinced him to join Tottenham

Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Mateus Fernandes has revealed that head coach Roberto De Zerbi played a decisive role in convincing him to complete his £85 million transfer from West Ham United this summer.

The highly-rated midfielder is expected to return to full training when Tottenham’s squad arrives back in London next week after missing Friday’s open training session at Sydney’s Accor Stadium with a minor knock.

Fernandes joined Spurs following West Ham’s relegation last season, with Tottenham moving quickly to secure his signature before Manchester United could make their own move for the Portuguese midfielder.

De Zerbi’s vision sealed the transfer

De Zerbi has made rebuilding Tottenham’s midfield one of his top priorities, targeting young, technically gifted players capable of fitting into his possession-based style of football.

According to Fernandes, the Italian’s personal approach was one of the biggest reasons behind his decision to move to north London.

“The way he spoke with me and my family was very important for me,” Fernandes told The Athletic.

“He was calling me every day, so I’m very happy to work with him and hopefully we can do great things.”

The 22-year-old explained that the conversations went beyond football, with De Zerbi making both him and his family feel comfortable about the move to England.

“It was more about creating a connection because my dad and my mum don’t speak English very well. It was more about feelings.”

“He said he would take care of me, that he would be my second dad in England. I’m very happy to work with him.”

Pedro Porro also helped persuade Fernandes

Fernandes also credited Pedro Porro with helping convince him to make the switch to Tottenham.

The Spanish defender made it clear that the Spurs dressing room wanted him at the club.

“‘Come on Mateus, you need to play with us, we want you,'” Fernandes recalled Porro saying.

“‘It was me that told the manager to bring you.'”

Exciting midfield partnership ahead

Fernandes is expected to form an exciting midfield partnership with Sandro Tonali as Tottenham prepare for the new season under De Zerbi.

With the Italian manager reshaping the squad around younger, technically accomplished players, Spurs supporters will hope Fernandes can quickly establish himself as a key figure in what promises to be an exciting new era at the club.