Tottenham went down 1-0 to Sunderland in Roberto De Zerbi's first game in charge on Sunday afternoon, officially cementing their spot in the relegation zone after West Ham picked up a win against Wolves on Friday night.
De Zerbi’s side now sit 18th with just six games to play in the season in what has been a winless start to 2026 so far. Things are bleak for the North London club as they head closer and closer to the Championship.
Speaking to Thunderpick, Mendes has spoken on how the Tottenham squad must come to terms with their situation as time slowly runs out.
“Spurs going down would be a huge shock for everyone. Even for Arsenal fans, for them, it will be a joy, but they wouldn’t have seen this coming.
“I think all over England it will be a shock to see a team like Spurs, a massive club, a massive stadium, massive fans, great squad, great players, in the Championship.
“You always want Spurs to compete for European spots, not in a relegation battle. Unfortunately, it's where they are at the moment, so they really need to pick it up.
“When you get to the final stages, you have to face reality. I hope the players are ready for a fight because it’s going to be close.”
De Zerbi has six games to save his new side from a humiliating relegation to the Championship and his next chance at 3 points comes against Brighton at home this weekend in what is another tough test.