Three Tottenham players who impressed Roberto De Zerbi in pre-season win

Tottenham Hotspur began their pre-season campaign with a 1-0 victory over MK Dons, giving new head coach Roberto De Zerbi an encouraging first look at his squad ahead of the 2026/27 season.

Summer signing Mateus Fernandes scored the only goal of the game with a superb first-half volley, while several academy players impressed after De Zerbi rotated his entire side at half-time.

The Italian manager experimented with two different line-ups as Spurs stepped up preparations for their pre-season tour of Australia and New Zealand.

Fernandes wasted little time announcing himself to Tottenham supporters by scoring the winning goal with a powerful volley that struck the post before finding the net.

The midfielder, who arrived earlier this summer, also impressed with his composure in possession, intelligent passing and ability to dictate the tempo of the game.

His performance offered an early glimpse of why De Zerbi views him as a central figure in Tottenham's midfield.

Academy winger Luca Williams-Barnett produced one of the standout performances after coming on at half-time.

The 17-year-old consistently troubled the MK Dons defence with his dribbling, creativity and direct running, becoming Tottenham's main attacking threat during the second half.

Although Spurs were unable to extend their lead, Williams-Barnett's display strengthened his case for further opportunities during pre-season.

Young defender Malachi Hardy also delivered an assured performance as Tottenham kept a clean sheet.

The 18-year-old produced an important block early in the second half and showed composure when playing out from the back, displaying the qualities De Zerbi demands from his defenders.

Having recently signed a new long-term contract, Hardy enhanced his reputation with another mature display.

New signing Martin Dúbravka was also given minutes, while Sandro Tonali partnered Fernandes in midfield for the first time.

Defenders Andy Robertson and Jan Paul van Hecke were not involved after only recently returning from their post-World Cup break, but both are expected to travel on Tottenham's upcoming pre-season tour.

De Zerbi will now continue assessing his squad before the Premier League campaign begins.

Tottenham will travel to Australia and New Zealand for the next stage of their pre-season preparations, where Roberto De Zerbi is expected to continue assessing both his new signings and the club's emerging academy talents ahead of the new Premier League season.