Spurs handed big boost ahead of Carabao Cup tie
Tottenham Hotspur received a boost ahead of their upcoming Carabao Cup tie against Manchester City, as Pep Guardiola has confirmed that winger Jeremy Doku is out with an injury. Doku is expected to remain sidelined until at least the November international break, making him unavailable for Wednesday’s showdown when Spurs host City.
This absence not only affects City’s lineup for the Carabao Cup but could also impact their league clash against Spurs on November 23 at the Etihad, immediately following the break.
Doku’s absence could benefit Tottenham significantly. Known for his explosive pace, Doku can stretch defenses, especially against teams like Spurs, who often play a high defensive line.
His speed proved challenging in their last encounter in May at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, where he won a penalty for City just twenty minutes after coming off the bench, securing three points for his team. Without Doku, Tottenham’s defense may find it easier to maintain their shape and control City’s forward momentum.
Adding to City’s woes, Jack Grealish is also dealing with an injury that could rule him out of their upcoming game against Southampton. His status for Wednesday’s Carabao Cup match remains uncertain, though Guardiola’s comments suggest that Grealish could be among several first-team players unavailable for the tie.
Guardiola expressed concern about the limited options at his disposal, mentioning that City currently only has “14 or 15 players available.” Such a thin squad could be advantageous for Spurs, giving them a genuine chance to progress in the competition.
For Tottenham, the stakes are high. Manager Ange Postecoglou, known for his ambitious and attacking playstyle, has openly stated that he typically achieves silverware in his second season at a club.
While he is still in his first season with Spurs, the early signs suggest that the team is on an upward trajectory, and an opportunity like this to knock out a top contender like City would reinforce their progress. Success in this tie would also place Spurs in a strong position to secure a trophy that has eluded them for years.
This match comes with additional intrigue as Guardiola previously remarked that he would consider using less-experienced players in the Carabao Cup to conserve energy for other competitions.
He expressed this before the current tie was confirmed, suggesting he might field players with fewer minutes or even members of the second team, particularly if injuries depleted his main squad. He called the Carabao Cup a “good competition to keep the rhythm,” indicating that while the tournament has value, it may not be his primary focus.
Guardiola’s statements might hint at his plans for the City lineup, though the caliber of the opposition could prompt him to reconsider.
For Spurs, facing a City squad missing key players like Doku and potentially Grealish presents a timely opportunity to take control of the game. City’s squad depth is formidable, but even their reserves might find it challenging to match the intensity and determination Tottenham are likely to bring to the pitch.
Ultimately, Tottenham must seize this opportunity. The potential absence of key City players could provide Spurs a less turbulent path to progress in the Carabao Cup. Additionally, a win against a club of City’s stature would bolster Tottenham’s morale and underline Postecoglou’s positive impact on the team in his early months.
The possibility of silverware could create significant momentum, energizing fans and players alike while sending a message to rivals about Tottenham’s aspirations.
For Tottenham, the Carabao Cup tie is more than just a fixture—it represents a chance to claim an early triumph under new leadership. Postecoglou’s approach, characterized by an assertive and spirited style, aligns well with Tottenham’s aim to challenge elite clubs.
Victory in this round would not only highlight their growth but could also catalyze further success in the league and other competitions.
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