Manchester United return to Old Trafford this weekend carrying momentum, clarity of purpose, and a growing sense that their interim chapter under Michael Carrick may yet shape the broader arc of their season. Spurs arrive as both test and opportunity, a fixture that often reveals as much about temperament as it does about tactical execution.
With three first team absentees, Carrick’s task centres on continuity rather than reinvention, trusting the framework that edged Fulham 3-2 in one of the campaign’s most breathless contests.
Team News Shaping Selection
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United remain without Patrick Dorgu, Matthijs de Ligt and Mason Mount, a trio whose absence narrows Carrick’s options but does not dismantle his structure. Mount, in particular, had been pencilled in for a return before suffering a training setback. As Carrick noted, he is “not too far away”, a phrase that suggests caution rather than concern.
In goal, Senne Lammens continues as first choice, shielded by a defence that is expected to remain unchanged. Harry Maguire’s late concession against Fulham has not dented managerial faith, an illustration of Carrick’s preference for stability during this resurgence.
Midfield Control Key Against Spurs
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The midfield pairing of Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo offers balance, one rooted in experience, the other in composure beyond his years. Casemiro’s headed opener last time out, arriving from a Bruno Fernandes corner, underlined his enduring threat in decisive moments.
Fernandes remains the gravitational force in this Man United side. Leading the Premier League assist charts, he continues to dictate tempo and direction, operating with the authority expected of a captain. His influence will be critical against Spurs, whose transitional speed can punish even minor positional lapses.
Attacking Options and Selection Calls
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On the flanks, Amad Diallo’s creativity on the right complements the direct thrust provided on the opposite side. With Dorgu absent, Matheus Cunha is set to continue after scoring in successive matches, rewarding Carrick’s trust with tangible output.
Photo IMAGO
Through the middle, selection intrigue centres on Benjamin Sesko and Bryan Mbeumo. Sesko’s dramatic winner off the bench against Fulham has strengthened his case, yet Mbeumo’s work rate and tactical discipline make him difficult to dislodge. For now, he appears poised to start, even after drawing a blank in the previous outing.
Predicted Man United XI vs Spurs
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**LammensDalot, Maguire, Martinez, ShawCasemiro, MainooAmad, Fernandes, Cunha**
**Mbeumo**
Match Context and Viewing Details
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Kick off is scheduled for 12:30pm GMT on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Old Trafford, with live coverage on TNT Sports.
For Man United, victory would represent a fourth consecutive league win and reinforce their hold on a Champions League position. For Spurs, it is a chance to disrupt that climb and recalibrate their own ambitions.
In fixtures of this weight, form offers guidance but guarantees nothing. Old Trafford, expectant and restless, will demand proof that United’s revival carries substance as well as style.