Old Trafford is alive with anticipation once again. Although Michael Carrick has only just begun his journey in the Manchester United dugout, the atmosphere around the club already feels transformed.
There is a renewed sense of belief, sharper intensity, and a quiet confidence that something significant is taking shape.
However, as United prepare for their next major test, a long-standing obstacle threatens to overshadow the optimism — an eight-match winless streak against Tottenham Hotspur that has become a psychological burden for players and fans alike.
This frustrating run against Spurs has stretched across the reigns of three different managers, making it more than a coincidence. It has evolved into what many supporters now describe as a “curse,” one that has repeatedly derailed United at crucial moments.
From painful league defeats to last season’s heartbreaking Europa League final loss, Tottenham have consistently found ways to deny United success.
Even earlier this campaign, a chaotic 2–2 draw served as another reminder of how difficult this fixture has become.
Yet, according to Michael Carrick, the tide is finally about to turn.
The former United midfielder — who also spent time at Tottenham during his playing career — believes he has uncovered the hidden reason behind United’s struggles.
Rather than blaming quality or effort, Carrick reportedly pinpointed a deeper tactical and psychological flaw that has haunted the team for years.
Sources close to Carrington suggest Carrick recently delivered a detailed and brutally honest briefing to his squad. In it, he emphasized that United’s failures against Spurs were rooted in “spatial respect” rather than inferiority.
In simple terms, United have been too reactive, allowing Tottenham to dictate transitions and exploit areas of the pitch where United repeatedly lose control.
Carrick is said to have told the players that United have been guilty of respecting Tottenham’s reputation instead of dismantling their structure.
Drawing on his firsthand knowledge of Spurs’ internal identity and playing patterns, he believes he knows exactly where their system breaks down under pressure.
His proposed solution is being described internally as a masterstroke. The plan reportedly focuses on altering the pressing responsibilities of Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes, particularly when Tottenham attempt to build through midfield.
Carrick has identified what insiders call “dead zones” — areas Spurs rely on to regain shape during transitions — and has designed a pressing trap intended to suffocate their rhythm and force errors in dangerous positions.
By disrupting Spurs’ pivot and attacking their delayed defensive recovery, Carrick believes United can finally seize control of the fixture instead of chasing it.
It is a bold tactical shift, one rooted in intelligence rather than caution, and it reflects Carrick’s growing influence as a manager who values control, awareness, and timing.
The stakes could not be higher. United currently sit fourth in the Premier League and boast a flawless record since Carrick took charge, with three wins from three matches.
A victory over Tottenham would not only end the dreaded streak but also firmly establish United as serious contenders for a Champions League place. Breaking this hoodoo would symbolize more than three points — it would represent a psychological breakthrough.
Team news, however, presents both encouragement and concern. Benjamin Šeško is fully fit and brimming with confidence after scoring a dramatic winner against Fulham.
Joshua Zirkzee has returned to full training and offers a valuable alternative in attack, while Mason Mount is expected to be available despite a recent minor knock.
The major disappointment is the absence of Patrick Dorgu, whose hamstring injury rules him out at a time when his form had been pivotal.
Still, belief is growing that Carrick’s insight, combined with United’s renewed momentum, could finally exorcise the Spurs ghost.
If his tactical vision delivers on the pitch, this match may be remembered as the night Manchester United truly turned the page — and buried a curse that has lingered far too long.
