Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Mon 25 May 2026 19:10, UK

Conor Gallagher has had plenty of critics since his move to Tottenham Hotspur, and the midfielder may even admit that it was warranted.

Early showings from the former Chelsea man offered little to see why Tottenham £34.6million to bring him back to the Premier League.

In defence of Gallagher, he arrived at a tumultuous time in N17, and adjusting to a new team that is in a tough period is not easy.

Multiple managerial changes have also been at play, but now under Roberto De Zerbi, he may be able to come out of his shell.

Tottenham next season could very well see a completely different version of Gallagher.

How Conor Gallagher has been transformed under Roberto De Zerbi

Since De Zerbi has come into Tottenham, Gallagher has emerged as an important part of his early Spurs set-up.

The Englishman has started in each of the seven games the Italian has managed, with Tottenham putting on Champions League-qualification form.

According to Sofascore, Gallagher has been averaging a 6.95 match rating since the decision to appoint De Zerbi was made.

Before then, he only had one game where he performed above that average – the 2-2 draw at the Etihad, where he earned a 7.0.

Gallagher’s best performance so far was the 2-1 win against Aston Villa, a fixture where Spurs were heavy underdogs in the build-up.

The Englishman completed two tackles out of three, made six recoveries and won four out of seven ground duels. Most importantly, he scored the opening goal of the game.

Gallagher earned plenty of praise from Alan Shearer and Gary Lineker for his performance, and that could be his base level under De Zerbi.

What has Conor Gallagher said about his Tottenham spell so far?

Gallagher has admitted that the opening months of his time at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium were difficult.

Speaking to Sky Sports, the midfielder opened up by saying: “The last manager wasn’t having me and the fans didn’t think I was any good.”

At the time, the England international was failing to make much of an impression, but since playing under De Zerbi, there has been an improvement.

While some supporters may still have their reservations about the quality that Gallagher could offer, they may yet be able to see his best football.

Ahead of next season, and with a full pre-season under De Zerbi’s watch, Gallagher may emerge as a key member of this Tottenham side.