TOT vs MNU: Manchester United’s Team News, Possible Lineup, Date and Kick-Off Time
The Premier League clash between Tottenham Hotspur (TOT) and Manchester United (MNU) is set to be one of the defining fixtures as the 2024/25 season edges towards its conclusion. With both clubs still fighting for European qualification and looking to end the campaign on a strong note, this match promises high stakes, tactical intrigue, and individual battles all over the pitch.
Whether it’s the attacking prowess of Spurs under Ange Postecoglou or United’s recent momentum under Erik ten Hag, this encounter at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is bound to be a must-watch for fans across the globe.
In this preview, we’ll look at the team news, possible Manchester United lineup, and all the key match details, including date and kick-off time.
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Match Details
Fixture: Tottenham Hotspur vs Manchester United
Competition: Premier League – Matchweek 37
Date: Sunday, May 26, 2025
Venue: Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London
Kick-off Time: 4:30 PM BST / 11:30 AM ET / 8:30 AM PT
Broadcast: Sky Sports (UK), Peacock (USA), SuperSport (Africa), Hotstar (India)
This late-season fixture could have huge implications for European qualification. Tottenham are chasing a Champions League place, while United are hoping to secure a top-six finish or at least a Europa League spot, depending on the result of their Europa League final just days later.
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Manchester United Team News
United come into this match after a demanding run of fixtures, including their Europa League semifinal tie and several tough Premier League matches. With squad fitness a major concern, Erik ten Hag is expected to rotate carefully — balancing the need to win with protecting key players ahead of the Europa League final.
Injuries and Absentees
1. Raphaël Varane – OUT
The veteran centre-back has been out with a muscular issue and is unlikely to feature before the Europa League final. The club is taking no risks.
2. Luke Shaw – DOUBTFUL
The left-back has returned to light training but is still not 100% fit. A late fitness test will determine if he makes the bench.
3. Lisandro Martínez – OUT
Martínez continues to recover from his recurring foot injury. He is ruled out for this match but could make the final squad for Europe if his recovery accelerates.
4. Anthony Martial – OUT
Still unavailable due to a hamstring injury. Martial may have already played his last game for the club, with his contract set to expire this summer.
5. Victor Lindelöf – DOUBTFUL
The Swedish defender is struggling with a minor knee issue but might return to the bench if needed.
6. Bruno Fernandes – FIT
The captain had been nursing a minor ankle knock but has trained fully this week and is expected to start.
7. Marcus Rashford – FIT
After missing two games due to illness, Rashford returned to training and could start or be used off the bench.
8. Scott McTominay – FIT
The midfielder has overcome a minor knock and should be in the matchday squad.
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Manchester United: Possible Starting XI vs Tottenham
Manager: Erik ten Hag
Formation: 4-2-3-1
GK: André Onana
Despite early-season criticism, Onana has improved considerably and remains United’s undisputed No. 1.
RB: Diogo Dalot
One of United’s most consistent performers this season. Dalot’s attacking thrust and improved defensive awareness make him a key figure on the right.
CB: Harry Maguire
With Varane and Martínez out, Maguire is likely to start and will be tasked with handling Tottenham’s aerial threats and set-piece dangers.
CB: Jonny Evans
Experience might win over youth here. With Lindelöf doubtful, Evans could partner Maguire again in what’s been a surprise late-career renaissance.
LB: Tyrell Malacia
With Shaw out, Malacia could make a rare start. His athleticism and defensive tenacity will be needed to deal with Spurs’ wide forwards.
CDM: Casemiro
Despite a challenging season, Casemiro’s experience and positional sense remain crucial in big games.
CM: Kobbie Mainoo
The breakout star of the season. Mainoo’s composure, dribbling and maturity will be central to United’s midfield battle.
RW: Alejandro Garnacho
Operating off the right flank in recent games, Garnacho’s direct running and flair will be vital in transition.
CAM: Bruno Fernandes (C)
Returning to full fitness, Fernandes remains the creative heartbeat of the team. Expect him to pull the strings in the final third.
LW: Marcus Rashford
With Tottenham likely to press high, Rashford’s pace in behind could be a game-changer. He’ll look to exploit the space left by Spurs’ aggressive full-backs.
ST: Rasmus Højlund
The Danish striker has found his rhythm late in the season. His movement and link-up play will be key in opening up Spurs’ defence.
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Bench Options
Altay Bayındır – backup goalkeeper
Scott McTominay – midfield depth and physical presence
Christian Eriksen – creative support off the bench
Amad Diallo – right-wing alternative
Facundo Pellistri – attacking option
Willy Kambwala – defensive cover
Sofyan Amrabat – holding midfielder
Anthony Elanga (if recalled from loan) – pace off the bench
Alvaro Fernandez – versatile left-back cover
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What to Expect from Manchester United
This will be a tactical challenge for United. Spurs play with width, quick transitions, and aggressive pressing — traits that have troubled Ten Hag’s side in the past. United’s ability to withstand that press, control midfield tempo, and exploit space in behind will dictate the outcome.
Expect United to play a more counter-attacking game, especially if Rashford, Garnacho, and Højlund start together. Mainoo and Fernandes will need to help Casemiro cope with the fluidity of Spurs’ midfield trio.
Defensively, United must be wary of Son Heung-min and James Maddison, who can operate between the lines. With a makeshift defence likely, United will rely heavily on midfield screening and compact shape.
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Tottenham Team Update (Brief Overview)
Ange Postecoglou’s side will likely be near full strength. The major doubts include:
Cristian Romero – battling fitness concerns
Pedro Porro – recently returned from injury
Destiny Udogie – sidelined for the remainder of the season
Key players like Son, Maddison, Kulusevski, and Bissouma are expected to start.
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What’s at Stake?
For Manchester United:
A win keeps their Europa League qualification hopes alive, should they not win the Europa League final.
It also builds momentum and confidence heading into the final in Budapest.
A loss, combined with other results, could leave them outside Europe entirely if they fail in the final.
For Tottenham:
They need all three points to maintain pressure on Aston Villa and Chelsea in the race for fourth or fifth.
Postecoglou will want a statement win against a top-six rival to prove Spurs’ growth under his management.
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Prediction and Final Thoughts
This clash could be season-defining for both clubs. While Tottenham have the home advantage and a more settled lineup, United’s motivation, combined with returning players and a battle-hardened squad, could make this closer than expected.
Predicted Score: Tottenham 2–2 Manchester United
Expect goals, end-to-end action, and plenty of narrative. If Ten Hag can
channel the same discipline and intensity that’s brought them to a European final, this could be a turning point — and possibly a launching pad to silverware.
Either way, it’s a must-watch.
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