Manchester United narrowly avoided a frustrating defeat at Tottenham Hotspur. The Red Devils started in assured fashion in north London, taking a first-half lead through Bryan Mbeumo’s header. For the final 20 minutes, Ruben Amorim substituted Casemiro for Manuel Ugarte. The decision changed the game, effectively costing United two points. Ugarte covered plenty of ground but he was at fault for both of Spurs goal. He allowed his man to run past him for their first goal and played Richarlison on for the second. Matthijs de Ligt’s 96th-minute equaliser cancelled out the Brazilian’s goal. Casemiro stats vs. Tottenham Hotspur MetricValue Long Pass Accuracy100% Cross Accuracy100% Pass Accuracy83% Ground Duels Won56% Touches44 Passes into Final Third5 Ball Recoveries5 Tackles4 Clearances4 Source: Statman Dave This has been the story of United’s midfield for much of the season. With both Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo yet to convince Amorim, Casemiro remains the side’s only reliable defensive midfielder despite his physical decline. Man United failed to sign Guerra in summer Over the summer, United showed interest in Valencia midfielder Javi Guerra, who eventually renewed his contract until 2029. Guerra is viewed as one of Spain’s most exciting young midfielders, having impressed with his powerful running capacity and ball control. Out of possession, the 6ft 2in midfielder uses his massive frame to dominate duels and recover the ball. However, the 22-year-old has had a difficult start to the campaign under Carlos Corberan, leading to suggestions of a surprise departure from La Liga. Valencia open to Guerra’s sale at a reduced fee According to Fichajes, United have renewed their interest in Guerra, as he “fits into their plans” for the future. Figures at Old Trafford admire the Spaniard’s physicality and athleticism and believe he could adapt to the Premier League quickly. Further, there is a feeling that they might be able to secure his services at a reduced fee. The Spain U21 international’s contract includes a €100 million release clause, but the Spanish outlet claim Valencia could allow Guerra to leave for a fee in the region of €25m. As such, Guerra has once again become a sought-after name in the market. Atletico Madrid and AC Milan are also thought to be monitoring his situation at Mestalla. Featured image Christian Hofer via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Vishal Singh Vishal has worked in the football media industry for over six years, planning, writing, and editing content for several major outlets, including North Star Network. Vishal has a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Delhi University. Currently a writer at The Peoples Person, he covers Manchester United — a club he has been religiously following and supporting since 2012. Vishal also manages a leading MUFC fan page, The Red Devils, on Facebook with over a million likes. Big fan of ball-playing centre-backs and Harry Maguire’s knee-slide celebration!





