Coach De Zerbi promises to be a 'father figure' for Tottenham's costly young signing

Mateus Fernandes shares how Roberto De Zerbi's unique approach won over Tottenham's big transfer by prioritizing the player's family bonds.

Mateus Fernandes has just disclosed a special detail behind his decision to join Tottenham: Roberto De Zerbi convinced him not only with a football project, but also by actively building trust with the Portuguese midfielder's family.

In an interview with The Athletic, Fernandes said De Zerbi contacted him almost every day before the deal was completed. The Italian coach's direct and emotional approach made the difference in the race to sign the 22-year-old player.

Fernandes stated: “The way he spoke to me and my family meant a lot. He called me every day. I'm very happy to work with him and hope we can achieve great things together.”

What touched Fernandes was De Zerbi's promise to his parents, who are not fluent in English. The Tottenham midfielder added: “What mattered more was building that connection, because my father and mother don't speak English well. It was about emotion. He said he would take care of me and be my second father in England. I'm very happy to work with him.”

This statement highlights De Zerbi's special mark on a deal valued by British media at around £85 million. Tottenham didn't just gain an advantage through financial power. They also gave Fernandes the feeling that he is a key piece in the rebuilding plan, while ensuring a suitable environment for the young player to continue growing.

When announcing the new signing on July 2nd, Tottenham quoted Fernandes as saying he and De Zerbi share the same vision of football: playing with energy, fighting spirit, and the desire to win every match. The Italian coach also praised his new student's ball-handling ability, work rate, tactical intelligence, and courage.

Pedro Porro played a role in pushing the deal forward. The former Sporting CP teammate actively called Fernandes, advised him to join Tottenham, and helped him understand the dressing room dynamic. The combination of a friend's invitation and the head coach's commitment created a highly personal persuasion rarely seen in such a major transfer.

After two consecutive relegations with Southampton and West Ham, Fernandes enters a new chapter in a completely different position. The promise of a "second father" may open the door, but how De Zerbi turns that trust into progress on the pitch is what will be worth watching in North London.