Tottenham: De Zerbi bans phones before first win

Tottenham are trying to repair a fractured start to the season after Roberto De Zerbi introduced a phone ban at team meals. The measure is aimed at improving communication and helping new players settle into a squad that has yet to win.

The rule was imposed during a training camp in Marbella, where players were told to leave their mobile phones aside during breakfast, lunch and dinner. Tottenham are bottom of the Premier League after six matches without a victory, despite signing 10 players for about £380 million during the summer transfer window.

De Zerbi used the camp for more than physical and tactical work. The squad held meetings about its poor performances and current position, with responsibility discussed among the players. Separate dinners were also arranged for the squad and coaching staff, while the manager sought to bring together a group affected by extensive changes and the late return of some internationals.

The Italian has used a similar team-building approach at Marseille. He considers several days together away from family life useful for putting the club first and strengthening relationships. The restrictions were not intended to create a military-style camp: players were allowed to leave the base and explore Marbella during their free time.