Roberto De Zerbi has begun assembling his coaching staff at Tottenham Hotspur, with reports suggesting that Italian World Cup winner Alessandro Nesta has been offered a role as assistant manager. The 50-year-old former defender, who won the 2006 World Cup with Italy, is currently considering the proposal, according to Italian outlet Tuttosport.
Nesta, who enjoyed a stellar playing career with Lazio and AC Milan, winning the Champions League in 2003 and 2007, has previously worked as a head coach at Miami FC, Perugia, Frosinone, Reggiana and Monza. His most recent stint at Monza ended in relegation from Serie A last season. If he accepts, this would be his first role outside Italy.
De Zerbi was appointed as Tottenham manager on Tuesday afternoon, tasked with steering the club away from Premier League relegation. He has stated: 'Our short-term priority is to climb the Premier League table, which will be the complete focus until the final whistle of the last game of the season.' His first match in charge will be away to Sunderland a week on Sunday.
Reports indicate that De Zerbi will earn an annual salary between £12 million and £15 million, making him the third-highest paid manager in the Premier League. Despite the threat of relegation, the Italian is not believed to have a release clause in his contract. He was identified as the club's first choice after Igor Tudor's brief 44-day spell ended without a win.
