De Zerbi to Bench Richarlison for Liverpool Clash

Despite planning squad rotations, Roberto De Zerbi has no intention of fielding Richarlison for Tottenham's Carabao Cup clash against Liverpool tomorrow. The Brazilian had sought to leave during the summer transfer window, even attempting to terminate his contract. While he wasn't registered for Premier League matches, he remains eligible for domestic cup competitions. Richarlison boasts an impressive six goals against Liverpool, having scored in both encounters last season. Nevertheless, De Zerbi will not be utilizing him.

“Kulusevski is unavailable, as is Pedro, but Udogie is fit to play. Sandro Tonali is out after feeling something following a light knock. You already know everything about Richarlison, so the situation remains unchanged for both the Carabao Cup and the Premier League. I’ve already spoken about him at the previous press conference. I know what has happened over the last 45 days. It’s not right for me to explain – it’s not about my behavior or my relationship with him. The problem is between the player and the club; I operate within the club – we are one unit. At the start of the season, I spoke with him many times to convince him to stay, but he didn’t want to. I can’t ask him to stay every day.

Solanke is a good player. He needs to improve his physical condition and maintain a positive attitude because he can score many goals for us. Marmoush and Savio didn't play many games for Man City because they weren't key players there, but here the situation is different. They have more responsibility, they need to adapt and understand that the situation is changing. But as for their qualities, both players are very, very good. Mathis Tel, Conor Gallagher, and James Maddison are not in their best form, and Kudus is still not fully ready. All these players can operate as 'tens,' but they need to attack empty spaces and sometimes get into the penalty area. My style has always been to score goals and attack, and I don't want to change that. But sometimes you have to create more chances – more potential opportunities,” De Zerbi stated at his press conference today.

The Italian also commented on tomorrow's showdown at Anfield.

“Squad selection isn't difficult because I'm fortunate to have these players. I am convinced of their qualities. The difficulty comes from having so many good footballers.

I believe Lucas Bergvall's case is different from the other players; the same applies to Mathis Tel. We need to analyze the rest of the squad – perhaps those who haven't played enough. I'm lucky because in central defense, I have Van Hecke and Van de Ven – top-class center-backs, but Ben Davies, Marcos Senesi, and Tosin are no less capable. I want us to play with the same attitude as in the Premier League. To maintain the same approach and the same spirit.”