Tottenham, still in search of their first trophy, will view the EFL Cup as a potential opportunity to kickstart their success, though they face a tough challenge.
In recent weeks, Spurs have struggled at home, failing to win any of their last four matches across all competitions.
These matches include losses 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 has managed only one win in their last six games. However, they did achieve a notable 2-1 victory over Manchester City in the previous round of the EFL Cup.
In contrast, Manchester United, a club with a rich history, is currently undergoing a period of decline.
Under new coach Ruben Amorim, who recently replaced the outgoing manager from Sporting, the team has struggled to regain its former dominance. Their last league title came in 2013, and now they are focusing on domestic competitions to find success, including their FA Cup win last season.
Under Erik Ten Hag, the team has been inconsistent in the Premier League, most recently suffering back-to-back defeats to Arsenal (2-0) and Nottingham Forest (3-2). Last weekend, they faced a struggling Manchester City, followed by a key Europa League match against Viktoria Plzen, making this a critical period for the team.
Tottenham will be without key players due to injury, including Argentine international Romero, who recently suffered a relapse after returning from injury. Other absentees include starting goalkeeper Vicario, Brazilian forward Richarlison, Frenchman Odobert, and defender Ben Davies.
However, new signing Solanke from Bournemouth has been in strong form, contributing 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 international Son has also been crucial, with 4 goals and 4 assists to his name.
Manchester United will also be missing defensive players Evans, Lindelöf, and Shaw due to injuries. Despite these setbacks, the squad remains strong with standout performers like Garnacho, who has scored 3 goals and provided 3 assists, and Holjund, who has scored 5 goals in the competition.
Bruno Fernandes has been influential, with 2 goals and 2 assists in the EFL Cup, while Rashford, Eriksen, and Casemiro have each found the back of the net at least once in the tournament.
Prediction
Given recent form, Tottenham has struggled against Manchester United, winning very few of their last 16 encounters. United, on the other hand, has been in excellent form, with 8 wins in their last 10 matches.
Prediction: Tottenham 1-2 Manchester United
