The trend that explains Tottenham's terrible start to the 2026-27 season

Tottenham Hotspur’s Premier League start to 2026-27 has turned into a repeating pattern of slow build-ups that don’t finish. Roberto De Zerbi’s side are 19th after four matches without a win, including losses to Newcastle (2-0), Aston Villa (3-2) and draws with Nottingham Forest (0-0) and Everton (0-0). The matches often begin well—Spurs created earlier pressure versus Villa—but execution in the final third collapses. Examples include Marmoush’s heavy first touch after a switch from the left, Porro’s pass toward the wrong area against Newcastle, and Fernandes failing to set up a shot despite finding space versus Everton.