Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi said he has no time for negative people following a draw against Brighton & Hove Albion on April 18, 2026 [1, 2].
The manager's comments come as the club struggles to climb out of the relegation zone. A failure to maintain a positive psychological environment could jeopardize the team's ability to secure its place in the Premier League.
De Zerbi addressed the squad and media after the fixture, emphasizing that morale is as critical as tactical execution. He said that a pessimistic atmosphere within the locker room would hinder the team's progress and fight for survival [1, 2].
"I have no time for negative people – we have to stay positive or we’ll go home immediately," De Zerbi said [1].
The manager's approach suggests a zero-tolerance policy toward pessimism as the season reaches a critical juncture. By framing positivity as a requirement for employment or participation, De Zerbi is attempting to insulate the squad from the pressure of their current league standing [1, 2].
Tottenham's recent form has left the club in a precarious position. The draw with Brighton failed to provide the three points necessary for a significant leap up the table, further intensifying the need for a mental shift among the players [1, 2].
De Zerbi said that negativity would hinder the team's fight to move away from the bottom of the league [1, 2]. He urged his players to focus on the immediate future rather than the risk of failure.
“"I have no time for negative people – we have to stay positive or we’ll go home immediately."”
De Zerbi is utilizing a psychological intervention to prevent a 'collapse' mentality common in teams facing relegation. By explicitly targeting 'negative people,' he is attempting to purge dissent and anxiety from the squad to ensure maximum cohesion during the final stretch of the season.
