United View: Spurs clash a must win for Carrick

The dreaded international break finally comes to an end this weekend, as Manchester United return to Premier League action.  

The Reds welcome Tottenham Hotspur to Old Trafford, as they look to turn around their fortunes after a disappointing start to their 2026/27 campaign. 

United have only amassed five points from their opening five matches this season, yet still boast a tally that eclipses their struggling visitors.  

The phrase, ‘lads, it’s Tottenham’, which grew in popularity under Sir Alex Ferguson’s stewardship, has never been more appropriate, with Roberto De Zerbi’s side sitting rock bottom of the table, having scored on just two occasions. 

Despite spending over £300m on new summer signings, Spurs seem to have somehow gone backwards, and any early optimism seems to have already dissipated. 

Regardless of form though, Spurs have always tended to cause United problems over recent years, with their bizarre 6-1 victory at Old Trafford springing to mind. 

And in some ways, their struggles may make for a tougher test on Saturday. 

They will likely look to sit deep and frustrate United, something that Michael Carrick and his side have had huge issues combating of late. 

To add to this, playing in front of an expectant Old Trafford crowd, who will be desperate for a response, may also work against the Reds. 

United will however be buoyed by the return of summer signing Carlos Baleba, who looks in line to make his debut following his arrival from Brighton. 

The Cameroonian was named on the bench for last month’s draw at Craven Cottage, and having trained at Carrington throughout the international break, a place in the starting 11 now looks inevitable. 

Though United’s main struggles have been in defence this season, the midfield balance has looked far from perfect. 

For all of the technical ability that Kobbie Mainoo and Youri Tielemans possess, their ability to cover ground quickly leaves a lot to be desired. 

It is hoped that Baleba can be the key to fixing this, with the 22-year-old particularly excelling in this area, shown in his time with the Seagulls. 

Carrick may well also be tempted into a change at the back, with Leny Yoro impressing with his supreme display for France. 

The 20-year-old made his Les Blues debut in a 4-1 win over Belgium, and was exceptional throughout, showing composure beyond his years to keep Romelu Lukaku quiet all evening. 

The defender also displayed his ability to play in an extremely high line, pressing effectively and showing lightning recovery pace. 

Since joining from Lille for over £50m, Yoro has so far failed to hit the heights many thought he would. 

But his potential is undeniable, and if managed correctly, I still believe he could become the future of United’s defence. 

Whatever happens, anything other than a United win this weekend will no doubt raise further questions, and only add to the mounting pressure Carrick finds himself under.