De Zerbi's first game is on Sunday at Sunderland with Spurs sitting in the relegation zone after West Ham's win against Wolves last night.
The Italian said: "I am proud and happy to be here.
"I'm sure about the level of the players because I was very, very close to bringing many of these players to my former teams in the past.
"I think I am not better than (Thomas) Frank or (Igor) Tudor because I consider them very good coaches.
"I try to bring my style, my character, my personality and my strengths to achieve our target, which is the most important part now."
On taking the job, De Zerbi added: "For me, it was a big opportunity because Tottenham are a very important club in the Premier League and the Premier League is the best league in the world.
"The message for my staff and players is that we have to deserve the support because the fans are suffering like us. But for the fans, there is just one club. The players can change but for the fans, their club is unique.
"We have to make them happy with the right spirit and the right behaviour on the pitch. Then it's easier to make points."