Tottenham, still seeking their first trophy, will look to the EFL Cup as a potential opportunity to kick-start their success, though they face a challenging task.
Recently, Spurs have faced difficulties at home, failing to win in their last four matches across all competitions.
These results include a loss to Ipswich (1-2), a draw with AS Roma in the Europa Conference League (2-2), a 1-1 draw with Fulham in the Premier League, and a dramatic 3-4 loss to Chelsea.
Ahead of their upcoming matches against Rangers in the Europa Conference League and Southampton in the Premier League, Tottenham had secured just one win in their last six outings. However, they did manage an important 2-1 victory over Manchester City in the previous round of the EFL Cup.
Manchester United, a club with a storied history, is currently undergoing a rough patch. Under new manager Ruben Amorim, who replaced Sporting’s previous coach, they have yet to regain their former level of success. The club hasn’t won the Premier League since 2013 and is focusing on domestic competitions to find redemption, including their FA Cup win last season.
Under Erik Ten Hag, United has been inconsistent in the Premier League, suffering recent defeats to Arsenal (2-0) and Nottingham Forest (3-2). This week is crucial for them, with a match against a struggling Manchester City and an important Europa League fixture against Viktoria Plzen.
Tottenham will be missing some key players, including injured Argentine international Romero, who returned from injury only to suffer another setback. Other absentees include starting goalkeeper Vicario, Brazilian forward Richarlison, Frenchman Odobert, and defender Ben Davies.
On a positive note, new signing Solanke from Bournemouth has been in excellent form, with 5 goals and 2 assists in the Premier League. Brennan Johnson has also impressed with 6 goals, while Maddison has contributed 5 goals and 4 assists. South Korean star Son has been instrumental as well, with 4 goals and 4 assists.
Manchester United will also be missing some defenders, including Evans, Lindelöf, and Shaw due to injuries. Despite this, their squad remains strong, with standout players like Garnacho, who has scored 3 goals and provided 3 assists, and Holjund, who has scored 5 goals.
Bruno Fernandes has been a key contributor with 2 goals and 2 assists in the EFL Cup, while Rashford, Eriksen, and Casemiro have also chipped in with goals in the tournament.
Prediction
Given their recent form, Tottenham has struggled against Manchester United, winning only a few of their last 16 encounters. On the other hand, United has been in excellent form, securing 8 wins in their last 10 matches.
Prediction: Tottenham 1-2 Manchester United.
