Richarlison Backs Criticism of Tottenham Manager De Zerbi Amid Exile

Exiled Tottenham star Richarlison has amplified criticism of manager Roberto De Zerbi through a pointed social media post. The 29-year-old forward, who has been out of the first-team squad since expressing a desire to leave the club, shared a quote from former Everton striker Duncan Ferguson on his Instagram story.

Ferguson, who previously coached Richarlison at Everton, commented on the player's situation, stating, "You don’t leave a player like that out unless there’s been a real murder: he’s chinned him or there’s been a proper scrap on the training ground." Richarlison responded to Ferguson's remarks by adding, "Thanks Duncan Ferguson, you are right."

De Zerbi, when asked about Richarlison's latest social media activity, stated it was "not my problem anymore" and directed questions to the club's CEO and technical director. "I know as a coach I have to support and take responsibility even when it's not my responsibility," De Zerbi said. "I have not decided anything in this situation. If he wants to speak to me he can find me in my office until 8.30pm in the evening. But I don't want to speak any more because my focus is on the Coventry game."

Richarlison's exile began after De Zerbi claimed the player had "said too many times he wants to leave." A transfer did not materialize over the summer. Tottenham has struggled offensively this season, scoring just three goals in six Premier League matches.

This is not the first time Richarlison has used social media to comment on his situation. Following Tottenham's 3-2 defeat to Aston Villa last month, he posted videos of himself training, captioned "The focus remains" and highlighting a new sprint speed record.

Richarlison made his first appearance since his exclusion on Tuesday for Tottenham's Under-21 team in an EFL Trophy match against Cheltenham Town. He scored the equalizer against the League Two side and also converted a penalty in the shootout, which Tottenham ultimately lost 7-6 after a 2-2 draw. "Happy to do what I love most in life. I was missing it!", Richarlison posted after the game.

Cheltenham manager Steve Cotterill praised Richarlison's conduct during the match, calling his attitude "absolutely first class" and noting it was "great for our lads to play against someone of his stature."

Richarlison will not be available for first-team selection until January, as he is not included in Tottenham's Premier League squad and the team has been eliminated from the Carabao Cup.