Richarlison hits back at De Zerbi following Ferguson intervention
Richarlison has publicly backed Duncan Ferguson's criticism of his exclusion from the Tottenham squad, while Roberto De Zerbi has distanced himself from the decision.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 4.0 / Author: Hossein Zohrevand
The friction between forward Richarlison and the Tottenham hierarchy has intensified. The 29-year-old, currently relegated to the Under-21s, publicly endorsed comments made by former Everton manager Duncan Ferguson, who questioned the wisdom of Roberto De Zerbi's decision to freeze the player out of the first team.
Speaking on the Overlap Daily podcast, Ferguson argued that such severe disciplinary action is rarely justified for a player of Richarlison's caliber without a major incident. Responding via his Instagram story, the Brazilian forward wrote: "Thanks Duncan Ferguson, you are right."
De Zerbi addressed the social media activity at a press conference, distancing himself from the ongoing saga. The Italian coach insisted that the decision to omit the forward from the 25-man Premier League roster originated in the boardroom. "It's not my problem any more," De Zerbi stated. "You have to ask Vinai or Johan. I know as a coach I have to support and take responsibility even when it's not my responsibility."
Since failing to secure a summer move to Everton or Vasco da Gama, Richarlison has been forced to play youth football. Despite his senior banishment, he recently scored in a Jersey Mike's Trophy match against Cheltenham Town, though his long-term future in north London appears increasingly bleak.
Tottenham now face a crucial test against Coventry City as they look to build momentum after a winless start to the league campaign. With the forward ineligible for senior fixtures, he faces an extended spell away from the first team unless a move materializes in the January transfer window.