Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur meet in the Premier League this weekend, with pressure mounting on their new managers, Michael Carrick and Roberto De Zerbi, after poor starts to the season. Winless Spurs have taken just two points from a possible 15 and sit rock-bottom, while United are 12th after one win, two draws and two defeats.
De Zerbi was backed with over £300 million in transfers this summer and signed a five-year contract only six months ago. However, his expansive, collective style is difficult to implement quickly, and his only previous experience of a high-pressure environment, at Marseille, ended with a promising start deteriorating amid internal and external tensions. Carrick, still young in management and having sealed a Champions League place last season, is less tied to one style and can switch to deeper defending and fast transitions if needed.
Changing managers this early appears premature, but both clubs were criticized last season for keeping Ruben Amorim and Thomas Frank too long, and the loser of this match will face growing speculation. Eddie Howe, 48, currently unattached, is considered the leading target for both clubs. His extensive Premier League experience and proven ability to handle pressure at Newcastle United make him a safe choice, and he is pragmatic enough to adapt to opponents without a major rebuild.
Howe is seen as the best fit for Tottenham, where his former Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali is already playing and could benefit from clearer responsibilities. Antonio Conte, 57, is another unattached option for United, known for quickly turning struggling sides into functioning units, though his suitability is questioned given his tactical needs.
Source: ESPN Soccer · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing