Manchester United snatched a dramatic late point at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday thanks to Matthijs de Ligt’s towering header in the 96th minute.
The draw keeps United unbeaten in five matches, but the rollercoaster encounter exposed both strengths and lingering worries for Erik ten Hag’s side.
Tottenham had taken the lead through Bryan Mbeumo, but Mathys Tel and Richarlison briefly put Spurs ahead again, before De Ligt’s last-gasp strike salvaged the result.
Sesko Struggles Continue
Benjamin Sesko’s difficult start at United showed again on Saturday.
Dropped to the bench at kickoff in favour of Matheus Cunha, Sesko came on for Noussair Mazraoui in the 58th minute but lasted just half an hour before limping off with a knee injury, leaving United to battle with ten men in a tense finale.
During his short spell, Sesko missed two clear chances and looked unsure of himself.
Spurs boss Ruben Amorim acknowledged the striker’s confidence issues but said the injury was the bigger concern.
“We need Ben to be better for the team,” he added.
It’s clear Sesko hasn’t yet settled at United like some of the other summer signings, including Mbeumo, Cunha, and goalkeeper Senne Lammens. Fans will hope the knee injury isn’t serious.
Late Goals Highlight Defensive Woes
For the second consecutive away game, United led only to see their advantage slip away.
Against Nottingham Forest last weekend, they conceded twice after half-time before Amad Diallo equalised.
At Tottenham, they held a lead until the 84th minute before Spurs turned the game around — only for De Ligt to save the day.
De Ligt admitted the team looked “tired” in the second half.
Despite a free week ahead of the game, United seemed to dip in energy, a trend that could worry Ten Hag if it continues.
“We controlled the game well, but we need to do better,” he said after the match.
Bryan Mbeumo Shines Again
Mbeumo continues to prove his worth in the Premier League, scoring his sixth goal since joining United from Brentford.
The Cameroon international had to shift to the left wing to accommodate Diallo on the right, but he still troubled Pedro Porro and played a key role in keeping an eye on returning teammate Patrick Dorgu.
Mbeumo’s versatility and experience were crucial for United in a complex tactical setup, and his performance underscores why he was recently named Premier League Player of the Month for October.
Casemiro’s Absence Felt
Manchester United also felt the impact of Casemiro’s absence in midfield.
The Brazilian midfielder, who is nearing the end of his contract, was taken off in the 72nd minute, after which Tottenham scored twice.
Ten Hag played down contract concerns, stating, “I’m really happy with Casemiro, but let’s focus on this season.”
Yet it’s clear that United rely heavily on his presence.
His ability to control the game, create chances, and provide stability in midfield leaves a void whenever he is unavailable.
Whether United offer him a new deal or allow him to leave as a free agent remains a key question for the club in the coming months.
Looking Ahead
While United can take comfort from maintaining an unbeaten run, the match highlighted ongoing issues — from Sesko’s adjustment period to second-half fatigue and reliance on key players like Casemiro.
Ten Hag will hope that these concerns can be addressed before the busy winter schedule kicks in, and that players like Sesko and Diallo regain confidence and consistency to keep United competing at the top of the Premier League.