If I start Him today and they sack me that means I don’t what I’m doing, His time in the XI is finally over”, Ten Hag have finally decided to drop big name player who caused Man united draw against Twente – Not Eriksen and Not Maguire.
Manchester United is gearing up to face Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford this Sunday in what promises to be an exciting Premier League showdown. Both teams are fresh from their respective Europa League matches, and their recent European performances will likely shape their strategies for this upcoming clash. United is under pressure following a shaky start to their European campaign, while Tottenham looks to build on their strong midweek win.
United’s European opener ended in frustration with a 1-1 draw against FC Twente at Old Trafford. Despite dominating possession, the team failed to capitalize on key opportunities, leading to concerns about their ability to finish chances. This draw followed a similarly disappointing result in the Premier League, where United played to a stalemate against Crystal Palace. Despite moments of brilliance, Erik ten Hag’s side has struggled with consistency, particularly in converting their dominance into wins.
In contrast, Tottenham enjoyed a more successful European outing, cruising to a 3-0 victory over Qarabag. Despite facing an early red card and a delayed start, Spurs showed impressive resolve to claim all three points. This win was their third in a row, easing some of the pressure on manager Ange Postecoglou, who had been under scrutiny earlier in the season. Tottenham now heads to Old Trafford full of confidence and intent on extending their winning streak as they push for a top-four spot.
The rivalry between these clubs at Old Trafford has delivered plenty of drama and memorable moments in the past. Fans will recall Manchester United’s thrilling 3-2 win over Spurs in the 2021/22 season, highlighted by a Cristiano Ronaldo hat trick. However, United will also remember the 6-1 thrashing Tottenham handed them the season before, a result that stunned the Premier League. With 21 goals scored in their last five meetings, this fixture is set to be another high-scoring affair, as both sides aim to make a statement.
United’s defense remains a concern with injuries to key players like Victor Lindelof, Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, and Leny Yoro, leaving ten Hag short of defensive options. However, the return of midfielders Mason Mount and Rasmus Hojlund offers a boost, with Mount’s creativity and Hojlund’s physical presence likely to help break down Tottenham’s defense.
In midfield, Christian Eriksen continues to be a standout performer for United. His ability to control the tempo and score important goals, as seen in the match against FC Twente, has made him indispensable in the lineup. Eriksen is expected to partner with young talent Kobbie Mainoo, whose energy has impressed in recent games. At the back, Matthijs de Ligt is likely to replace Harry Maguire, while Alejandro Garnacho may vie for a starting spot on the wing against Amad Diallo. Up front, Joshua Zirkzee could face competition from a returning Hojlund, eager to make his mark after injury.
Tottenham also faces injury concerns, particularly in attack. Captain Heung-min Son is a doubt after being subbed off early in their Europa League match, but there is optimism he will recover in time. Meanwhile, Richarlison and Wilson Odobert remain sidelined, leaving Spurs somewhat thin up front. However, the recent form of Dominic Solanke and Brennan Johnson will give Postecoglou confidence. Solanke has scored twice in his last two outings, while Johnson’s pace and creativity have made him a key player on the wing.
Despite their absences, Spurs will be boosted by the availability of defender Radu Dragusin, who is only suspended in UEFA competitions, making him eligible for the Premier League match. His inclusion will strengthen Tottenham’s defense as they prepare to counter United’s attacking threats.
Both teams enter this crucial fixture with areas to improve. United will aim to solve their scoring woes and tighten up defensively, while Spurs will look to continue their winning form and exploit United’s vulnerabilities at the back. Given the history between these two clubs, fans are in for an intense and entertaining match at Old Trafford.