Tottenham have failed to score in their opening four Premier League matches for the first time in two decades, prompting analysis of why the team is struggling beyond simply an absence of goals. Manager Roberto De Zerbi's new-look side is experiencing significant issues converting attacking opportunities despite entering dangerous areas regularly, raising questions about squad composition, tactical adjustment, and preparation.

Tottenham's problems stem from substantial squad turnover and constant team changes. Only four players who featured regularly last season are involved in 2026-27, with the starting eleven averaging just 1.3 years at the club and being the joint-third-youngest in the league. De Zerbi has made 12 starting-lineup changes—four per game—more than any other Premier League manager, preventing the team from gelling. Injuries from pre-season tours to Australia have compounded matters, with key players including Micky van de Ven, Dominic Solanke and James Maddison sidelined. Statistically, Tottenham's attacking inefficiency is stark: they lead the league with 46 completed take-ons but only five led to chances or shots, whilst they average 3.97 touches per shot in the penalty area compared to the league average of 2.82, suggesting everything is proceeding too slowly to be effective.