Tottenham Hotspur’s hopes of European qualification have quickly given way to fears of another relegation battle, despite spending a net £175m to strengthen Roberto De Zerbi’s squad. After finishing last season by avoiding relegation on the final day, Spurs are bottom of the Premier League after one winless opening run, with concerns extending beyond poor confidence to weak concentration, defensive errors and fragile team structure.

Spurs lost 3-0 at Brentford, 2-0 at home to Newcastle and then drew with Nottingham Forest and Everton before Saturday’s 3-2 defeat by Aston Villa. Although they rank ninth for shots and should eventually score more, every Villa goal followed a significant mistake, while doubts are growing over the value and suitability of several expensive summer signings, including the reported £100m deal for Sandro Tonali.