Manchester United – Tottenham Hotspur: Lethargic United Punished Late (1-1)

Tottenham Hotspur dominated for the majority of the first half with their 2-3-4-1 possession structure against Manchester United’s low-intensity zonal 4-4-2 shape but were unable to take their chances. United went ahead in the second half but eventually conceded late against a ten-man Spurs side. 

Tactical analysis and match report by Josh Manley.

Both of these clubs would have felt relatively optimistic at the start of this season. Manchester United were beginning their first full season under Michael Carrick, who had made himself popular by securing European football during his interim period, while Tottenham Hotspur had invested huge sums of money in their squad under Roberto De Zerbi.

Things have not quite worked out as planned for either of them so far, though. United suffered defeat against Hull City on the opening day and have looked lethargic in most games. Spurs, meanwhile, are yet to win a Premier League match and did not score in their first four games of the season.

United lined up here in a 4-2-3-1 shape with Leny Yoro, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martínez, and Luke Shaw at the back, while Youri Tielemans and Kobbie Mainoo continued their partnership in the double pivot. Amad Diallo, Bruno Fernandes, and Matheus Cunha then supported Bryan Mbeumo up top.

For Spurs, it was a nominal 4-2-3-1 with a backline of Archie Gray, Jan Paul van Hecke, Marcos Senesi, and Destiny Udogie. Lucas Bergvall was chosen in midfield alongside Sandro Tonali, while Conor Gallagher played as the number ten. The front line comprised Mohammed Kudus, Dominic Solanke, and S . . .