Solanke Saves Spurs at Old Trafford, Carrick and De Zerbi Still on the Brink

Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur had to settle for a share of the points in a match that ended dramatically at Old Trafford on Sunday (10/10/2026). The result extends both teams' poor starts: United have collected just six points—their worst start since 1986—while Spurs remain stuck in the relegation zone with three points fewer. A big question now hangs over both managers, Michael Carrick and Roberto De Zerbi, neither of whom has found a formula for revival.

The match had been dull before Matheus Cunha delivered a cross that Bryan Mbeumo finished in the 73rd minute. The goal briefly raised United's hopes, but their lead vanished in stoppage time. Sandro Tonali sent a lofted ball from the left, and Dominic Solanke won an aerial duel against Lisandro Martínez before heading the ball past goalkeeper Senne Lammens. The goal saved Spurs from a fourth defeat, though they remain without a win in their opening six matches—the fourth-worst record in the club's history.

Carrick's frustration was plain to see. His team were disjointed, lost control in midfield, and again failed to make the most of their chances. On the other side, De Zerbi watched his players perform aggressively but fire blanks in front of goal. Finishing is the scourge: Solanke, Archie Gray, and Mohammed Kudus took turns squandering golden opportunities. Even goalkeeper Lammens nearly made a fatal blunder after his careless pass was intercepted by Lucas Bergvall, but Solanke's finish was still kept out.

Controversial incidents colored the match. Rodrigo Bentancur received a straight red card after his scissor tackle nearly injured Luke Shaw. Shaw, who suffered a double leg break 11 years ago, retaliated by pushing Bentancur, sparking a scuffle among the players. Referee Stuart Attwell gave yellow cards to Shaw and Jan Paul van Hecke, a decision that sparked debate since Shaw could also have been sent off.

"We are a great group of players, but we are not yet a team. Being a team means playing for your teammate—suffering together, attacking together," De Zerbi said after the match.

Both managers now face a decisive, packed schedule. De Zerbi will take his squad to Marbella for warm-weather training, hoping to rediscover their touch and cohesion. Meanwhile, Carrick and United will travel to Atlético Madrid in the Champions League on Tuesday, a stern test that could worsen the pressure. Failure to take full points in the coming matches could make their positions increasingly uncomfortable.

The big question: can Carrick and De Zerbi turn things around before the winter transfer window? With performances showing no signs of improvement, both clubs risk being stuck in a battle near the bottom of the table all season. Old Trafford and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium now await answers, while fans are beginning to lose patience.