Manchester United vs Tottenham Hotspur Prediction, Odds and Betting Tips 14/01/2024
Calendar icon Updated 12 Jan 10:52

Manchester United vs Tottenham Hotspur Prediction, Odds and Betting Tips 14/01/2024

Kai Edvard Iliev Kai Edvard Iliev

Odds via Tonybet

Manchester United vs Tottenham HotspurJanuary 14 2024, 11:30 AM ET
Manchester United odds+124
Tottenham Hotspur odds+200
Draw+290
Over\Under2.5 -209 / +175

Manchester United vs Tottenham Hotspur. Shape of the Teams

The upcoming face-off at Old Trafford between Manchester United and Tottenham is shaping up to be an intriguing contest, not least because of the somewhat surprising odds. 

While it’s not unexpected for Manchester United to be favoured at home, the real eyebrow-raiser is the low expectation placed on Tottenham, a team that, under normal circumstances, would be seen as a formidable contender.

Tottenham currently sits in fifth place and boasts a more impressive run than United, who find themselves struggling to bridge the gap in points with the league’s top teams. However, an outside factor could explain it all: Continental competitions. 

Tottenham faces significant absences: Son is set to represent South Korea in the Asian Cup, while both Sarr and Bissouma will be participating in the African Cup of Nations (AFCON), which kicks off next weekend. 

These losses could significantly handicap Tottenham’s performance, more so than any similar absences might affect Manchester United. The only notable player United will miss is Amrabat, who is joining the Moroccan team, which presents a golden opportunity for the Red Devils.

Manchester United, currently sitting in 8th place, faces a crucial moment in their season. 

With many top-tier teams grappling with player absences, – it’s now or never for a top-six charge. However, this does not automatically place them as favourites against Tottenham, far from it. 

Tottenham, even without Son, Sarr and Bissouma, is not a team to be underestimated. 

While seemingly weaker on paper, their squad maintains a resilient character under coach Ange Postecoglou. 

Known for his unwavering faith and the indomitable spirit he instills in his teams, Postecoglou’s approach transcends individual absences. The absence of Maddison is notable, but the likes of Skipp, Lo Celso, and Bentancur are more than capable of stepping up.

The primary concern for Tottenham is the center-back situation. The anticipated acquisition of Genoa’s Romanian defender, Dragusin, as reported by Fabrizio Romano, is a response to this issue. 

Ongoing injuries to Romero have forced Postecoglou to use Davies and Emerson in less familiar centre-back roles, a pairing that lacks excitement. Dragusin is expected to add much-needed strength to this area, though his debut against Manchester United on Sunday seems unlikely.

For Manchester United, this match carries significant importance, particularly for Erik ten Hag. A victory at Old Trafford would see his win ratio surpass that of Sir Alex Ferguson, offering a much-needed boost and relief from the pressure, especially following their exit from European competitions.

Despite being weakened, Tottenham holds an edge, having lost only one out of their last five Premier League games – a 2-4 defeat to De Zerbi’s Brighton.

In contrast, United’s two recent defeats cast a more sombre tone over their prospects. While Old Trafford can be an unpredictable fortress, United needs more than just home advantage. They need to demonstrate character, belief, and a clear direction – qualities that have been sporadic this season.

A convincing performance and victory for Manchester United would not only uplift the mood but also leverage their lighter schedule, with fewer games than their rivals due to being out of most competitions. 

Manchester United vs Tottenham Hotspur Main Match Info

Manchester United vs Tottenham Hotspur, Prediction, Odds

This game at Old Trafford is not just another game; it’s a pivotal moment, especially for Manchester United, as they look to make the most of the next 30 days. With only Sofyan Amrabat away at the AFCON, United is in a relatively advantageous position compared to Tottenham.

Tottenham’s lineup will notably miss Son, compelling coach Ange Postecoglou to likely field Richarlison, whose tenure in London hasn’t quite lived up to expectations. The key question for Tottenham is who will step up as the creative linchpin in the absence of their usual forwards. 

While eyes may turn to Kulusevski, his ability to shoulder this responsibility remains to be seen.

The game is at Old Trafford, which could be a decisive advantage for United. They tend to excel in open, expansive games, and with the speed and agility of Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford on the wings, they could exploit a Tottenham defence that often prioritizes risk-taking over playing it safe.

This tactical nuance could tilt the scales in favour of Erik ten Hag’s side. 

For Manchester United, securing a win is more than just adding three points; it’s about setting a positive tone for 2024 and shaking off the disappointments of the previous year. 

Manchester United vs Tottenham Hotspur Betting Tip

Marcus Rashford, more than just a player for Manchester United, is the embodiment of the club’s spirit – an academy product who carries the hopes and expectations that come with such a status. 

While Rashford has faced his share of criticism, a natural consequence of the lofty expectations placed upon him, he has consistently shown that he thrives in open spaces on the pitch, spaces that, as previously mentioned, are likely to be present against Tottenham.

The key to exploiting Tottenham’s defensive vulnerabilities, particularly against a high line that might include Davies and Emerson – both relatively inexperienced in such a setup – could very well lie with Rashford. Combined with the creative prowess of Bruno Fernandes, Rashford could be instrumental in dissecting Tottenham’s defence.

For Manchester United, chasing glory isn’t just a matter of strategy and tactics; it’s about their stars stepping up to the challenge. 2024 needs to start on a high note for Rashford, both for his personal journey and for his relationship with the fans.  

Disclaimer: Odds are accurate at the time of posting and subject to change. Please verify the latest odds on our platform before betting.

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