Tottenham v Manchester United: Postecoglou makes major blunder
Ange Postecoglou has made a major blunder as he’s named his Tottenham side against Manchester United on Sunday.
Spurs go into the game at home in 15th place and a win here could see them ending the weekend in 12th place.
Much like them, United are also struggling under new manager Ruben Amorim and also has multiple injury issues to deal with.
Lucas Bergvall starts for Tottenham ahead of Yves Bissouma
In his eleven, Postecoglou has opted to name Lucas Bergvall, with Yves Bissouma on the bench.
However, Bissouma is undoubtedly the better option and the manager has made a huge blunder not selecting him.
Bissouma averages 3.13 tackles per 90 minutes this season, which is more than Bergvall’s 3.11. [Fbref]
With 2.16 clearances to Bergvall’s 1.9, Bissouma is better in that aspect of the game as well.
In terms of passing, Bissouma has a 90.9 per cent pass accuracy – putting him in the 96th percentile of midfielders in Europe’s top leagues.
In comparison, Bergvall’s 88.8 per cent is in the 83rd percentile.
Postecoglou will be hoping that this decision does not his side dearly or he’ll be forced to make a change.
Ange Postecoglou must win the tactical battle against Ruben Amorim
Postecoglou will aim to outmanoeuvre Amorim in the tactical battle by leveraging his side’s high-pressing, attacking philosophy against Manchester United’s structured 3-4-3.
The Australian’s fluid front line, led by Son Heung-min and supported by Dejan Kulusevski’s versatility, will target the spaces behind United’s wing-backs, exploiting potential gaps in Amorim’s back three.
Ange’s emphasis on quick transitions and vertical passing could disrupt United’s build-up, forcing errors from their centre-backs, who have struggled under pressure.
Defensively, Postecoglou will instruct his midfield to press United’s pivot, cutting off supply to Bruno Fernandes and limiting his influence.
By maintaining a high line, the hosts can suffocate United’s counter-attacks, though they must beware of Rasmus Hojlund’s pace. Postecoglou’s proactive approach, contrasting Amorim’s more controlled style, will aim to dominate possession and create overloads, securing a statement victory.