Carrick's United Streak: Beat Spurs & Top Four Beckons?

Red Devils Rise Again: Can Carrick Keep the Streak Alive?

Manchester United fans, don’t look now, but something is cooking at Old Trafford , and it smells a lot like the glory days. With Michael Carrick temporarily in charge, United have rattled off three straight wins, including a dramatic 3-2 over Fulham, and they’re suddenly looking like a side that’s remembered how to win ugly... but effectively.

While Carrick’s early run still shows a few cracks , leaky defense, anyone? , the team’s renewed belief and back-to-basics approach have sparked optimism in the red half of Manchester. Carrick’s simplified tactics and calm demeanor have resonated with players who previously seemed to be running in circles under prior leadership.

Heading into a clash against a fragile Tottenham side, United are the 8/13 favorites on the moneyline. But this isn’t a slam dunk. Spurs, though inconsistent, are getting players back and still have the potential to cause problems. That said, United have momentum, Old Trafford, and a bit of that ol’ Fergie-time magic behind them. The smart play? United to win with over 1.5 goals , a combo that’s cashed in the last two outings.

Tottenham’s Wobbly Ride and the Carrick Connection

Tottenham are limping into this match like a team in need of a serious rethink. Thomas Frank’s job still hangs in the balance, and while some fans are dreaming of Michael Carrick in the Spurs dugout next season, the club’s form doesn’t exactly scream “Champions League contender.”

After a 2-2 comeback against City, Spurs showed grit, but they’ve also conceded far too easily, including a chaotic 3-2 loss at Bournemouth. With United scoring three in back-to-back games, and Spurs showing a habit of leaking goals, this fixture has all the makings of another high-scoring affair. Both teams to score? It’s happened in 11 of United’s last 13. Don’t be shocked if it’s 3-2 again , that exact scoreline sits at an eye-catching 25/1.

Carrick, once a Spurs man himself, now finds himself in a pseudo-derby of sorts. His calm influence and sharp in-game adjustments are winning him fans, but questions remain about whether he’s the man for the long-term job. If he guides United to a fourth straight win, those whispers might get louder.

Casemiro’s Curtain Call and the Managerial Carousel

As Manchester United look ahead, they’re also saying a slow, possibly fond farewell to Casemiro. The Brazilian midfield anchor hasn’t been at his best this season, but he’s still played a key role in recent wins. His likely departure , with MLS or Saudi Arabia calling , opens up cap space and room for a new midfield direction.

The bigger question is the managerial hot seat. While Carrick has impressed in a short spell, the list of potential permanent replacements is long and full of intrigue. Thomas Tuchel is probably out of the England frame, Luis Enrique will be free once his PSG stint ends, and Javi is already available. And yes, Carrick has his backers, but there’s still a “show me more” vibe among many fans.

Tottenham, meanwhile, could be making moves of their own. Thomas Frank is still the second favorite in the “next manager to go” market, but he’s only hanging on because of past achievements, not current form. With Oliver Glasner’s situation at Crystal Palace getting murkier, it wouldn’t be shocking to see some early managerial musical chairs this summer.

Crunch Time in the Top Four Race

United’s current run has them sitting fourth in the table, 12 points behind Arsenal but crucially ahead of Chelsea and Liverpool. The top three might be a stretch, but Aston Villa and even Manchester City are within reach if Carrick’s side keeps stacking wins.

The schedule is manageable, and the belief is back. If United can handle business against a wobbly Tottenham and then navigate a tricky West Ham away day, they’ll firmly control their Champions League destiny. But they’ll need to tighten up at the back , conceding four goals in two games isn’t a recipe for long-term success.

Still, with goals flowing and a more composed midfield, United fans have reason to be optimistic. Sprinkle in a few more wins and a possible return of Matthijs de Ligt , who Carrick hasn’t had at his disposal yet , and suddenly things don't look so bleak.

Final Whistle: Betting Takeaways

• United on a streak: Three wins in a row under Carrick, all featuring 2+ goals. Stick with what’s working: United to win + over 1.5 goals.
• Goals galore: Both teams have scored in 11 of United’s last 13. BTTS is a strong lean, and the 3-2 scoreline at 25/1 has spicy potential.
• Tottenham’s turmoil: Injuries, inconsistency, and managerial uncertainty make Spurs hard to trust, especially away from home.
• Carrick’s case grows: If he guides United to a fourth win, expect louder calls for him to be considered as the permanent boss.
• Top four in sight: United are in the driver’s seat. Villa and possibly City are catchable if the form holds.

In a season full of chaos, Carrick’s calm might just be the secret sauce United didn’t know they needed. For now, ride the wave , and ride the over 1.5 goals while you're at it.