Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi has challenged his players to respond to their difficult start to the Premier League season as they prepare to face Manchester United at Old Trafford on Saturday.

The north London side are seeking their first league victory of the campaign after collecting just two points from their opening five matches, leaving them at the bottom of the table.

Tottenham’s struggles continued before the international break when they suffered a 3-2 home defeat to Aston Villa. They had also been eliminated from the League Cup following a loss to Liverpool.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, De Zerbi said he had been eager for the opportunity to return to action after the Villa defeat, describing the waiting period as difficult. He urged his players to work harder and respond to the team’s current situation.

The Italian coach acknowledged that Tottenham must improve their finishing, despite creating opportunities in the final third. He said the team had been able to get the ball into dangerous areas but had not converted enough clear chances into goals.

De Zerbi added that improving assists and finishing would be important if Tottenham were to move away from the relegation zone. His comments come amid growing pressure on the manager following the club’s disappointing opening results.

Manchester United, managed by Michael Carrick, are also looking to improve their league form. The encounter has consequently attracted attention as both sides seek a positive result after struggling in the opening weeks of the season.

Tottenham will travel to Old Trafford for the Matchweek Six fixture on Saturday, October 10. The result will provide an early indication of how either side responds to the pressure following the international break.