De Zerbi did not directly explain why Richarlison was recently excluded from the squad, despite previous transfer attempts. He stated that he had tried to persuade the striker to stay but expressed regret over the situation, without revealing full details.

The Brazilian player's transfer negotiations in this window have suffered repeated setbacks, including a failed move to Vasco da Gama that fell through on Friday. Richarlison even recorded a video message for Vasco fans, saying he had been very close to joining his beloved club.

De Zerbi spoke cautiously about the matter but did not shy away from it. He attributed responsibility for Richarlison's exclusion from the Tottenham Hotspur squad to the player himself.

"If it were my decision to exclude him from the squad, I would regret it. But the club has not made that decision. This is the result of what I said earlier—he made the decision himself," said the Italian coach.

"I regret having one fewer player available. Richarlison is a very good person. I spoke to him many times and spent time trying to persuade him to stay. However, if you ask me, I know the truth. I cannot forget what happened over the last 45 days. I am not upset."

De Zerbi stated that he knew the club's efforts in this matter and was aware of "what Richarlison's behavior was like," believing the outcome could have been different. In the coach's view, staying at the club or even renewing his contract were options that remained available, as Richarlison was an important player who had contributed to the team last season.

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