In an exciting clash in the Premier League, Manchester United will face off against Tottenham Hotspur as both teams look to secure a crucial victory.
This match holds significance for Tottenham, who are aiming for their first top-flight double over Manchester United in the Premier League era.
The encounter promises to be an enticing battle, with both teams coming into the game on the back of FA Cup victories.
Match Preview:
As the saying goes, football is a game of two halves, and that rang true for both Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur in 2023.
However, Manchester United has started 2024 with renewed vigor, furthering their chances of domestic success.
Their recent FA Cup win against Wigan Athletic showcased their determination, with Diogo Dalot’s goal and a contentious penalty from Bruno Fernandes sealing their victory.
On the other hand, Tottenham’s win against Burnley secured their passage into the next round of the FA Cup, but they faced a tough challenge and narrowly avoided a replay.
Manchester United’s Premier League form has been inconsistent, with wins, losses, and draws in recent matches. In all competitions, they have struggled to find consistency, with alternating victories and defeats.
On the other hand, Tottenham Hotspur has had a more positive run of form, winning five out of their last six matches in all tournaments.
Their recent victory against Bournemouth was particularly impressive, and they are only one point away from overtaking fourth-placed Arsenal in the Premier League table.
Team News:
Manchester United will have Andre Onana guarding their goal despite his call-up for the Africa Cup of Nations.
However, Sofyan Amrabat has joined the Morocco squad. In a surprising turn of events, Luke Shaw, Casemiro, and Lisandro Martinez have all resumed training and could be in contention for the game.
Christian Eriksen, Amad Diallo, and Antony have also recovered from their illnesses. Unfortunately, Mason Mount, Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, Tyrell Malacia, and Anthony Martial are set to miss out due to various injuries.
For Tottenham, Son Heung-min, Pape Sarr, and Yves Bissouma have joined their international teammates, and Eric Dier has left the club to join Bayern Munich.
However, they have made some new signings, with Timo Werner and Radu Dragusin potentially making their debuts.
Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero have also made progress in their recoveries but may not be fully fit for the game.
Ben Davies and Giovani Lo Celso have been ruled out due to hamstring injuries, joining several other players on the sidelines.
Possible Lineups:
Manchester United: (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: Onana
Defenders: Wan-Bissaka, Varane, Evans, Dalot
Midfielders: McTominay, Mainoo
Attacking Midfielders: Garnacho, Fernandes, Rashford
Striker: Hojlund
Tottenham Hotspur: (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: Vicario
Defenders: Porro, Emerson, Van de Ven, Udogie
Midfielders: Skipp, Bentancur
Attacking Midfielders: Johnson, Kulusevski, Werner
Striker: Richarlison
Prediction: Manchester United 1-1 Tottenham Hotspur
Both Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur have their strengths and weaknesses coming into this game. While Tottenham has shown consistency in scoring away from home, Manchester United has struggled to find the back of the net.
However, with several key players returning from injury for Manchester United, they have a chance to make a strong start to their Premier League calendar in 2024.
Considering the circumstances, a tightly-contested draw with a scoreline of 1-1 seems like the most likely outcome.