Roberto De Zerbi is already proving one thing about Tottenham's academy

Roberto De Zerbi has only been at Tottenham Hotspur for a few months.

However, it is already clear that the academy will likely play into his thinking throughout his tenure.

Pre-season is the perfect chance to get a glimpse of the young talent pushing through in N17 and give them that experience of training around some of the best players.

The Italian has gone far beyond that, though, with his usage of the youth throughout the build-up to the 2026-2027 season quite high.

That trust has been rewarded with the London club currently unbeaten in their pre-season outings so far.

And three Tottenham youth stars could be in line for future first-team chances in competitive settings this season based on these friendlies.

Which three Tottenham youngsters look set for increased role?

Seeing youth come through and make a difference is one of the best feelings as a football fan.

There is just something unique about one of your own becoming a success, and Tottenham look to have a promising group of talent.

As shared by Lilywhite Rose on X, there are three Tottenham academy stars among De Zerbi's most-used players in pre-season so far.

In terms of minutes, Malachi Hardy (193'), Tye Hall (170'), and Rio Kyerematen (158') are in third, fourth and fifth, respectively.

With only Manor Solomon (211') and Archie Gray (218') above them.

While it is just pre-season, it does prove that De Zerbi is not shy to turn to youth and that will be a big boost for all the talent at Hotspur Way.

And as Tottenham News has shared, Spurs insider John Wenham believes those such as Hardy could be in De Zerbi's plans this season.

At the very least, this pre-season has proved to the young roster of Spurs players that there is a pathway forward.

What is Tottenham's pathway like under Thomas Frank?

Although Thomas Frank was not at Tottenham long, there was little usage of youth during his time.

Only really 17-year-old Jun'ai Byfield and Luca Williams-Barnett were handed chances and in the case of the latter, he only got three minutes in the Carabao Cup.

Byfield, though, was handed 28 minutes in the Champions League against Borussia Dortmund.

The 17-year-old is out injured, which is why we was not on the most recent pre-season tour.

Dane Scarlett was also frequently used by Frank with five appearances. But with him being 21 years old at the time and having broke through years before, he is more closer to being an established senior player than youth.

With a win over Chelsea in their latest friendly, Tottenham are more than set up for the future under De Zerbi.