De Zerbi can forget Bentancur by unleashing 18-year-old Spurs kid who’s a mini Dembele
Tottenham Have Three Midfield Options to Replace Rodrigo Bentancur as De Zerbi Faces Coventry City Decision
When Igor Tudor took charge of Tottenham Hotspur, he was asked during his first press conference whether he understood the meaning of the word ‘Spursy’. Although he was unfamiliar with the expression at the time, his experience in north London eventually gave him an understanding of what Tottenham supporters meant.
Roberto De Zerbi is now discovering the same reality. After narrowly avoiding relegation last season, Spurs find themselves 19th in the Premier League despite spending heavily during the summer transfer window.
However, there have been some encouraging signs under the Italian manager. Tottenham’s 1-1 draw against Manchester United at Old Trafford demonstrated their resilience, even though they could have collected all three points.
Rodrigo Bentancur’s red card threatened to ruin the progress made during the match. The Uruguayan midfielder was dismissed for putting his head into Luke Shaw’s face, leaving his teammates with an even greater challenge.
Although Spurs eventually secured a valuable point, Bentancur’s suspension has created a selection dilemma for De Zerbi ahead of their upcoming clash with Coventry City.
The midfielder had been one of Tottenham’s more reliable performers this season, making his absence a significant blow. Nevertheless, the situation provides an opportunity for other players to impress.
Here are three options De Zerbi could consider to replace Bentancur.
1. Lucas Bergvall: The Obvious Replacement
Lucas Bergvall appears to be the most straightforward option to replace Bentancur against Coventry City.
The Swedish midfielder started against Manchester United, suggesting De Zerbi already trusts him to contribute in central midfield.
Although his performance at Old Trafford divided opinion, the 20-year-old demonstrated encouraging qualities, including his composure in possession, technical ability and willingness to receive the ball under pressure.
Bergvall has previously attracted comparisons with Luka Modric because of his excellent first touch, although he still has considerable development ahead of him before reaching that level.
Tottenham’s summer arrivals, including Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes, raised questions about Bergvall’s future and whether he would receive enough opportunities.
However, Bentancur’s suspension gives him another chance to demonstrate his importance to the squad.
Spurs desperately need midfielders who can control possession, move the ball forward and help the team create opportunities. Bergvall possesses the technical attributes to contribute in those areas.
Starting him against Coventry would also give De Zerbi an opportunity to assess his progress and determine whether he deserves a more regular role.
Bergvall remains the leading candidate, but he must deliver a disciplined performance and demonstrate that he can handle the responsibility of replacing an important first-team player.
2. Mateus Fernandes: An Opportunity to Prove His Worth
Mateus Fernandes is another midfielder De Zerbi should seriously consider.
The Portuguese international arrived during the summer in a deal reportedly worth £85 million, raising expectations that he would become an influential figure in Tottenham’s midfield.
However, his performances have yet to consistently justify the excitement surrounding his arrival.
One possible explanation is that Fernandes has frequently been deployed as an attacking midfielder rather than in a deeper position where he could influence possession and help dictate the tempo.
Bentancur’s suspension could therefore provide De Zerbi with an opportunity to reconsider his tactical approach.
Moving Fernandes into central midfield might allow him to demonstrate his passing ability, contribute more effectively to the build-up and help Tottenham transition between defence and attack.
Nevertheless, the midfielder has work to do to regain the manager’s confidence.
He was substituted at half-time during Tottenham’s 3-2 defeat to Aston Villa before the international break, with De Zerbi admitting afterwards that he was unhappy with Fernandes’ performance.
That criticism highlighted the pressure facing the 22-year-old, particularly given the considerable investment Tottenham made to secure his services.
However, the manager must also take responsibility for finding the right position and system for his players.
If Fernandes receives an opportunity against Coventry, he must demonstrate greater consistency and prove that he can influence matches from deeper areas.
Bentancur’s absence could be the perfect opportunity for Fernandes to silence his critics and show why Tottenham invested so heavily in him.
3. Luca Williams-Barnett: An Opportunity for Tottenham’s Young Talent
Another option De Zerbi could consider is Luca Williams-Barnett, who could benefit from an opportunity to demonstrate his potential at senior level.
The Tottenham youngster has attracted attention for his technical qualities and attacking instincts, making him an exciting prospect for the club’s future.
However, giving Williams-Barnett a role in midfield would represent a different challenge from selecting an established first-team player.
De Zerbi would need to assess whether the youngster is ready to handle the physical demands and tactical responsibilities of Premier League football, particularly with Tottenham fighting to escape the relegation zone.
Williams-Barnett could offer energy, creativity and a willingness to take risks in possession. Those qualities could be valuable against Coventry if Spurs need additional movement and attacking inspiration through the middle.
However, the manager must be careful not to place too much pressure on a young player during such an important period.
Tottenham’s difficult league position means De Zerbi cannot afford to make selection decisions based solely on potential. Any opportunity for Williams-Barnett would need to be supported by a clear tactical plan and appropriate protection from more experienced teammates.
A starting position might be a significant step, but introducing him from the bench could be a sensible way to assess his readiness.
With Bentancur unavailable, the youngster could at least enter the conversation as another option for the manager to consider.
Giving Williams-Barnett an opportunity would demonstrate Tottenham’s willingness to trust their young talent, although De Zerbi must ensure the decision benefits both the player and the team.
De Zerbi Must Make the Right Decision
Tottenham desperately need three points against Coventry City as they attempt to climb away from the relegation zone.
Bergvall appears to be the most natural replacement for Bentancur, while Fernandes could benefit from playing in a more suitable position. Williams-Barnett represents an alternative if De Zerbi believes the youngster is ready for greater responsibility.
Ultimately, the Italian must prioritise balance, defensive discipline and creativity when selecting his midfield.
Tottenham’s expensive summer recruitment has yet to produce the consistent results supporters expected, and another disappointing performance would increase the pressure on everyone at the club.
Bentancur’s suspension is undoubtedly a setback, but it also gives other players an opportunity to prove themselves.
Whether De Zerbi chooses Bergvall, Fernandes or Williams-Barnett, Tottenham need the replacement to step up and help deliver a victory that could finally kick-start their struggling season.
