Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi has always been known as a very emotional personality. The Italian is demanding, radical and often combative.
This was visible at Marseille, where he was rather public about many of his concerns.
That played a role in his exit earlier this year, as he fell out with many at the Ligue 1 side. De Zerbi seems to have adapted to the delicate situation at Tottenham with surprising ease but stories about his personality and approach remain well-documented.
Details about his fractured relationship with Ismael Kone have now emerged.
Player recalls problems
The Canadian midfielder has become a growing name in Serie A due to his performances at Sassuolo.
He’s now spoken to Gazzetta dello Sport and was was asked about his relationship with De Zerbi at Marseille. The duo were involved in an infamous training ground scrap at the French club, leading to the Canada international’s exit in 2025.
Detailing the conflict, Kone said: “We’re two people who love football, but with two different visions. He’s truly incredibly passionate. At the time, I was having some difficulties and probably wasn’t able to give him what he wanted straight away.”
The Sassuolo player described how the tactical approach didn’t suit his playing style.
“I’ll never say anything bad about Roberto. Maybe he could have been more patient with me, and I could have avoided responding. Things happen. It was an argument like many others.
“He wants one or two touches in the middle of the pitch, but I need a bit of freedom. I want to look for the play. He knew it, but that day he got angry.”
Despite that, Kone has no regrets about his time at Marseille.
“I had a great time in Marseille. It was a great experience. I remember the skill of my teammates and the warmth of the fans. I’ll never be grateful enough for what I experienced there, even if it didn’t go the way I wanted.”
Pair have buried the hatchet
Kone revealed having met De Zerbi recently during his ongoing stint at Tottenham. The duo have hugged it out and are past their problems.
“A couple of weeks ago I went to London with two friends, I met Roberto and he hugged me tightly. We talked about many things, as if nothing had happened. Sometimes social media and the media make everything too big.
“Marseille’s decision. I didn’t know they’d include it in the documentary celebrating that special season with the return to the Champions League. This episode hasn’t changed me.
“I know where I’m coming from. I was sorry it might have an effect on those around me. And there’s something nobody knows.”
Tottenham players will know
This is classic example of how De Zerbi usually operates. He wants his teams to play quickly between the lines, instead of reducing the tempo of games.
While that has been seen at Tottenham, this seems like a toned-down version of the Italian so far. He has understood the situation well, constantly praising players to lift the mood.
At the same time, this version of the 46-year-old won’t last. Next season, things will be different. De Zerbi will focus much more on imposing his own ideas and that is when Spurs players will see a more radical version of him.
