SpotlightSky SportsUnverified source· 19 Aug 2026
Van Hecke key to unlocking De Zerbi ball at Spurs
Tottenham's new £52m defender already knows De Zerbi's system, making him the perfect conduit for the Italian's complex style.
J. van Hecke
player
Player
Jan Paul van Hecke
Position
Centre-back
Club
Tottenham Hotspur
Fee
£52m from Brighton
What happened. Jan Paul van Hecke has been brought in by Tottenham to help implement Roberto De Zerbi's unique playing style, as the club prepares for his first full season as head coach.
- Van Hecke is already familiar with De Zerbi's approach from their time at Brighton.
- De Zerbi's methods are so complex that even experienced players like Lewis Dunk felt lost initially.
- Former players highlight the strict rules and prescribed movements required in De Zerbi's system.
“He opened a new way of playing.”
— Anatoliy Trubin
Spurs fans must embrace De Zerbi's full system, with Van Hecke as the key to making it work.
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