Neal Maupay believes Tottenham Hotspur will make significant progress under Roberto De Zerbi in the upcoming season, while also admitting his strong desire to return to the Premier League.
The 29-year-old forward, who previously played for Roberto De Zerbi at Marseille, feels that Spurs supporters can look forward to a much-improved campaign as the Italian coach embarks on his first full season at the helm.
Speaking to FourFourTwo, Maupay said, “I have to say I’ve got great hopes for him and for Tottenham next season. I played under him for a season and a half, and I truly believe he will become one of the best managers in the world in the coming years. I’m completely convinced about that.”
The interview with Neal Maupay was organised by YRDS.
Maupay reflected on Tottenham’s previous season, stating, “The toughest part was keeping Tottenham in the Premier League. Now he finally has the chance to build the kind of squad he wants, and to get injured players back in action. Having a full pre-season will be crucial as well, because he’s extremely detail-oriented, and implementing his ideas takes time.”
He added, “At Marseille, it took us three or four months to really understand his philosophy and get in sync with his methods. But once everything clicked, the game became much easier for us as players.”
Offering his assessment of Spurs’ prospects, Maupay remarked, “I think they’ll be a dangerous side next season. I’m not sure how far they’ll go, but I doubt they’ll struggle as much as they did last time.”
Turning to his own future, Maupay admitted that things are uncertain following the conclusion of his loan at Sevilla. The striker revealed that the LaLiga club is unlikely to activate the option to make his move permanent.
“Sevilla told me they have many internal matters to resolve, and with Sergio Ramos in talks to purchase the club, there’s a lot happening behind the scenes. I believe they don’t plan to bring me back or take up the buy option,” he explained.
“I’m still under contract with Marseille, but I’m not sure what lies ahead. The club has recently appointed a new sporting director, and a new manager is expected soon,” he continued.
Reflecting on his time in Spain, Maupay said, “I feel really good after my experience at Sevilla. I’m in top physical condition, feeling confident and extremely motivated to play.”
He went on to add, “Why not in England? I think I’ve gained a lot from my time in France and Spain, but England is where I feel most comfortable and at my best. The country and its football culture suit me perfectly, so who knows what the future holds?”
“I would be delighted to return. But even if I stay, Marseille is the biggest club in France, so we’ll see what happens. I can’t predict the future, but one thing’s certain—I’m hungry for more,” Maupay concluded.
Looking ahead, the French striker said he will be watching the upcoming World Cup closely and believes that reigning European champions Spain will be the team to beat in North America.
“Spain look incredibly strong, possibly the best side in the tournament. They’ve been playing in a consistent style for many years, and that unity shows,” he said.
“It’s difficult for national teams to build that kind of chemistry since players only meet every few months for short periods, but Spain have managed it well.”
Speaking about his home nation, Maupay added, “The French squad is full of talent. When you see the names on paper, you can’t help but dream of winning again. Big hugs to Kylian Mbappe for the season he’s had at Real Madrid. It’s been tough for him without any trophies, so I think he’ll be extra motivated to bring home another World Cup.”
He also shared his thoughts on England’s chances, saying, “Every World Cup and major tournament, people wonder if it’s finally coming home. We’ll have to wait and see. Some strong players have been left out, but with Thomas Tuchel as manager, they’ll be a formidable team.”
