Micky van de Ven believes Tottenham Hotspur’s record-breaking summer spending has ushered in a new era of ambition at the club following two disappointing Premier League campaigns.

After consecutive 17th-place finishes, Spurs narrowly avoided relegation on the final day of last season, prompting a major overhaul under new head coach Roberto De Zerbi.

The Italian made it clear he wanted the club to back his vision in the transfer market, and Tottenham have done exactly that, investing a club-record £237 million on new signings ahead of the 2026/27 season.

Among the arrivals are midfielders Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes, while fellow Dutch international Jan Paul van Hecke has strengthened the defence after joining from Brighton & Hove Albion. More additions are also expected before the transfer window closes.

Speaking to BBC Sport during Tottenham’s pre-season tour of Sydney, Van de Ven admitted the club’s activity has given everyone around the squad renewed belief.

“It’s really good that you can see the club has made some changes,” Van de Ven said.

“You can see the club has a new ambition. That’s really important for the players who have been here for a long time.

“Last season was stressful and unacceptable from our side, so to leave all of that behind and go into the new season with a fresh mindset means a lot.”

De Zerbi’s philosophy already taking shape

Van de Ven also believes supporters can expect a very different style of football under De Zerbi, with the emphasis shifting towards possession, attacking play and entertaining performances.

“It’s going to be more with the ball and more about playing football,” he explained.

“I think it’s also going to be more enjoyable for people to watch because we’ll be playing attacking football.”

The Dutch defender praised the impact De Zerbi has made since arriving, highlighting the positive atmosphere he has brought to the dressing room after a difficult campaign.

“It’s something we needed because everybody was a little bit down. He brings a lot of good energy, and throughout pre-season we’ve had time to work on his ideas and his style of football. That’s been really enjoyable.”

De Zerbi took charge with seven matches remaining last season, winning three of them to steer Tottenham clear of the drop as they finished two points above West Ham United in the final Premier League standings.

Spurs continue their preparations for the new campaign when they face Sydney FC in their latest pre-season friendly on Wednesday.