While the football world is buzzing with anticipation for Saturday’s clash at Old Trafford, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has added some serious fuel to the fire.
In a week where City themselves are licking their wounds after a frustrating 2-2 draw with Tottenham, Pep didn’t hold back when asked about the upcoming Manchester United vs. Tottenham showdown on February 7, 2026.
Pep’s Verdict: “No Contest”
Speaking ahead of City’s own fixtures, Guardiola was uncharacteristically blunt about the form of his cross-town rivals. Under the revitalized leadership of Michael Carrick, United have become the Premier League’s “form team” of 2026.
> “I see how they play now, the structure, the energy,” Guardiola remarked. “Right now, United have a momentum that is very difficult to stop. On Saturday, if they play with that same intensity, it will be a no contest for them. It’s an easy win because Tottenham are struggling for consistency in the league.”
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Pep’s comments come at a time when Spurs, managed by Thomas Frank, have been a “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” side—brilliant in Europe but languishing in 14th place in the Premier League.
The “Carrick Effect” vs. The Spurs Slump
The narrative heading into this weekend is a tale of two trajectories. Since Michael Carrick stepped in, United have ditched the experimental 3-4-3 of the previous era for a rock-solid 4-2-3-1 that has unlocked their biggest stars.
Key Factors for Saturday:
* The Bruno Renaissance: Bruno Fernandes has recorded four assists in his last three games, thriving in his restored “number 10” role.
* Mainoo’s Engine: Kobbie Mainoo has returned to the lineup, covering more ground than any other player in recent wins over City and Arsenal.
* Tottenham’s Defensive Woes: Spurs are currently dealing with a battered backline, which has led to them conceding late goals and dropping points in three consecutive league games.
| Team | Current League Rank | Form (Last 3 League Games) |
|—|—|—|
| Manchester United | 4th | W – W – W |
| Tottenham | 14th | D – L – D |
Can Spurs Defy the Odds?
Despite Pep’s dismissive prediction, Tottenham still possess the “Solanke Factor.” Dominic Solanke is coming off a sensational performance against City, including a sublime scorpion kick that silenced the Etihad. If Spurs can catch United on the counter-attack, they might just prove Pep wrong.
However, the bookmakers agree with the City boss. United are currently the 1.70 favorites to take all three points at the Theatre of Dreams, where they have won seven of their last twelve.
Match Details
* Fixture: Manchester United vs. Tottenham
* Venue: Old Trafford
* Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026
* Kick-off: 12:30 GMT
* Where to Watch: TNT Sports (UK)
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