Stephen Dunmoye
Tottenham manager Antonio Conte believes Manchester United remain a “monster” in world football as he urged his team to fight against them at Old Trafford on Wednesday.
The Italian has repeatedly talked up the spending power of Erik ten Hag’s side during the opening months of the season, especially in reference to Spurs’ own ability in the transfer market.
Despite Tottenham enjoying their best start to a campaign in 59 years, Conte has been keen to play down talk of a title bid but knows victory away to one of the top six in midweek would mark a step forward for his players.
According to Conte, “United for the present and the future will always be a monster that you have to go to fight. They have big, big potential from an economic aspect.
“On Wednesday it will be another important game. I think, compared to last season, we have improved in many aspects,” added Conte, whose side lost 3-2 at Old Trafford in March.
“But when you go to play against United, especially at Old Trafford, it will be a difficult game. At the same time, I enjoy the fact that this test is coming now. We need to understand very well what our ambitions are and to continue to try to get good results.”
Conte revealed he was pursued by Sir Alex Ferguson during his playing days but wanted to stay and finish his career at Juventus, despite Man Utd regularly winning Premier League titles at that stage.
While they have not tasted success in England’s top flight since 2013, the 53-year-old believes Man Utd are still a side capable of competing for trophies.
Antonio Conte says he is not thinking about his contract at the moment but adds he will speak to the club to find a solution that suits everybody
He added, “To play at Old Trafford is not simple, not easy. It’s not a good place for the opponent. There is a fantastic atmosphere but at the same time it’s a big theatre, you have to go there and play with personality, play your football, your ideas.
“This period is not a lucky period for United if you compare to 10 years ago but only two years ago, don’t forget, United fought for the Premier League and finished second behind City.
“We are talking about a team that, if they don’t make big mistakes, they always stay in the top four, play Champions League and fight for the title and trophies.
“I’d like my team to go there and play with personality, with the desire to get three points. I think this will be a good step for us to go there to play with personality and try to get a win.”
