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Analysis of the match between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur
The recent run of three matches has brought a wealth of positive signs for Manchester United. Not only have the Red Devils won all three games, but they have also impressed greatly with their style of play. It has been a long time since United last looked truly coherent as a team: sharp one-touch combinations and effective press resistance were clearly on display in matches against Manchester City and Arsenal. It should be emphasized that these are the two best-performing teams in the Premier League this season, and the fact that United under Carrick could perform like this has clearly exceeded initial expectations. After a long period of losing their identity as a giant, the past three matches suggest that the Red Devils are gradually rediscovering the image of the most successful club in Premier League history.
What United are showing now reminds many fans of the early, vibrant days under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Before being officially appointed, Solskjaer’s United played energetic and highly effective football, highlighted by the famous comeback victory over PSG in the 2018/19 Champions League knockout stage. That team stood out for its pragmatic approach and rapid transitions. In contrast, Carrick’s current United look more expressive, more possession-oriented, and more proactive in controlling matches. Of course, three games are far too few to claim a full revival, but at the very least, the early signs are extremely encouraging.
The 4-2-3-1 system implemented by Carrick is helping many United stars perform at their best. Casemiro has become a true pillar in midfield, contributing across the board with assists, goals, and strong defensive work. Mainoo continues to impress and shows that he deserved more opportunities under Amorim. In attack, Bruno Fernandes, Cunha, and Mbeumo have all shone, while the return of Lisandro Martinez has significantly strengthened the defense. With such a structure in place, United head into the match against Tottenham with great confidence.
On the other hand, Tottenham drew 2-2 with Manchester City in the previous round, but that result owed more to individual mistakes from City than to Spurs’ superiority. In reality, Tottenham are currently facing numerous problems, most notably a severe injury crisis. Head coach Thomas Frank is dealing with major headaches as many key players are sidelined, with captain Sergio Romero even admitting that Spurs had only 11 fully fit players available against Manchester City. Romero himself is also doubtful for this match after playing only 45 minutes in that encounter.
Tottenham’s form has therefore declined sharply. Since the start of 2026, Spurs have failed to win any of their seven domestic matches, losing three of them. Given the current situation, a defeat against a confident and in-form Manchester United appears a very likely outcome.
