Tottenham go against The Red Devils at Old Trafford, where both teams are looking to find consistency after a rocky start to the season. Spurs are ahead coming into this game, sitting 10th, but only on goal difference as both teams start the season with the same record (W2 D1 L2). With United sitting just below them at 11th, they are looking to go ahead in what is a must-win game for both teams.
Spurs have been a mixed bag this season, but with recent success both domestically and in the Europa League, they have momentum. With a 3-0 win against Qarabag and a comeback victory over Brentford, Ange’s side is looking to keep the train moving as they head into this away game. Spurs looked good this preseason, but after an underwhelming 1-1 draw against Leicester in their first game and back-to-back losses to Newcastle and Arsenal, alarms were raised. However, with Brennan Johnson finding form, scoring in three consecutive games, and the return of Son from injury, things may be looking up for Tottenham. One thing to note is that Spurs have only two wins in their last 12 away games.
Finding rhythm is key for United, as they have looked great in some games this season but have also been plagued with some underwhelming performances. After their 0-3 loss to Liverpool, United bounced back and beat Southampton 0-3, following that up with a 7-0 win against Barnsley in the Carabao Cup. However, they have drawn their last two games against Palace and Twente in the Europa League. The main problem for Manchester is their trouble converting chances, scoring only five times despite having one of the highest expected goals (xG) numbers in the league.
United welcome back Mason Mount and Rasmus Højlund, both of whom are expected to be in the starting lineup. Marcus Rashford, who was benched in the last match, is likely to return to lead the attack. However, defensive injuries remain a concern, with Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia still unavailable.
Spurs will be without Richarlison and Wilson Odobert due to injuries, but the positive news is that Son Heung-min, who suffered a slight knock earlier, is expected to start. Tottenham will rely heavily on their attacking trio of Brennan Johnson, Dominic Solanke, and Son to break down United’s defense.
Manchester United possible lineup: Onana, Mazraoui, De Ligt, Martínez, Dalot, Mainoo, Eriksen, Rashford, Fernandes, Garnacho, Zirkzee
Tottenham Hotspur possible lineup: Vicario, Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Udogie, Bentancur, Maddison, Kulusevski, Johnson, Solanke, Son