Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi has admitted he is unsure whether Richarlison will remain at the club, revealing the Brazilian has sent mixed messages about his future.
The comments came shortly after Richarlison scored the winner in Spurs' 2-1 pre-season victory over Chelsea in Sydney, but De Zerbi acknowledged the striker's long-term future remains uncertain.
De Zerbi reveals mixed signals
With just one year remaining on his contract, Richarlison has yet to agree fresh terms with Tottenham.
Speaking after the match, De Zerbi admitted the forward has been undecided over whether he wants to stay.
"I don't know, because as a player, as a guy, he's unbelievable in his attitude and behaviour, but in the end, we have to respect what he wants to do.
"It's not so easy to find another striker as Richarlison, because Richarlison scores goals and he knows the way."
The Spurs boss also praised the 29-year-old's contribution last season.
"He scored 12 goals last season. He's not lucky, because he feels the way to score goals."
However, De Zerbi admitted the player's stance has been inconsistent.
"Sometimes he says he wants to stay, sometimes he wants to leave. There is not any problem. He's a lovely guy. He works hard every day and we can't say anything negative."
Archie Gray handed leadership role
De Zerbi also explained why Archie Gray has captained Tottenham throughout their pre-season tour.
The Italian believes giving the 20-year-old extra responsibility will accelerate his development.
"I think this has been more important for Archie Gray than for Ben Davies because it's like giving Archie something more as a confidence booster."
De Zerbi reiterated his belief that Gray is both Tottenham's present and future, highlighting the youngster's versatility despite admitting right-back is not his preferred position.
Delight over Mudryk return
The Tottenham manager also welcomed the news that Mykhailo Mudryk is eligible to return to football after his suspension was lifted.
Having previously coached the Ukrainian at Shakhtar Donetsk, De Zerbi spoke warmly about the Chelsea winger.
"I'm very, very happy.
"A good guy, a top player. Hopefully he can show what he suffered in the last two years in the next season."
Key Points
- Roberto De Zerbi admits Richarlison has given mixed signals over his future.
- The Brazilian has one year remaining on his Tottenham contract.
- Richarlison scored the winner in Spurs' 2-1 victory over Chelsea.
- Archie Gray has captained Tottenham throughout pre-season.
- De Zerbi also welcomed Mykhailo Mudryk's return to competitive football.
What's Next?
Tottenham must decide whether to extend Richarlison's contract or risk losing the striker for free next summer. With the transfer window still open and Spurs targeting further attacking additions, the Brazilian's future is likely to remain one of the club's biggest talking points.
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