Top five players to play for both Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur

The rivalry between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspurs is one that is rarely discussed. While it may lack the emotional weight of the Manchester derby or the Merseyside derby, it stands out as one of the most intense rivalries in recent history. Despite both clubs currently being at a comparable level and undergoing rebuilding phases, United has secured victories in three of their last five matches, whereas Spurs have managed to win only one.

The supporters of the two clubs find it difficult to accept losses to one another, despite the fact that United and Spurs do not share a historical rivalry or a rivalry based on their geographical proximity. Although they have their own intense rivalries, these clubs have engaged in numerous player transfers over the years. 

In this article, let’s examine the top five players who have played for both Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur.

5. Louis Saha

Louis Saha is regarded as a legend at Manchester United and is a prominent figure in the Premier League. The French forward spent four seasons with United, where he established himself as a formidable player alongside stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Ryan Giggs. However, after a couple of disappointing seasons, he was transferred to Everton. In the January transfer window of 2012, he entered into a six-month contract with Tottenham Hotspur following his departure from Everton.

4. Michael Carrick

Michael Carrick is a well-known figure among Manchester United supporters and a crucial part of the club's era of dominance. He made 316 appearances for the team before retiring at Old Trafford. However, his remarkable performance at Tottenham Hotspur was the catalyst for his signing in 2006. Prior to that, from 2004 to 2006, he participated in 64 matches for the Lilywhites.

3. Christian Eriksen

Christian Eriksen has become one of the most unexpected signings in the Premier League, much to the delight of Manchester United. Following his unfortunate incident during Euro 2020, the Danish midfielder was close to ending his career, yet he has successfully returned to the pinnacle of the sport. Eriksen is presently a player for Manchester United; however, Tottenham Hotspur has been instrumental in shaping his career. He made a total of 226 appearances for the club and continues to be held in high regard there.

2. Teddy Sheringham

In the context of the rivalry between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, Teddy Sheringham stands out as a prominent figure who has experienced it firsthand. Both clubs consider the English striker a legendary player, having made two transfers between them. In 1997, he joined United following a successful tenure at Tottenham Hotspur, where he had established himself as one of the club's standout players from 1992 to 1997. Despite demonstrating initial potential, he returned to Tottenham Hotspur in 2001 after not meeting the expectations of Sir Alex Ferguson.

1. Dimitar Berbatov

Dimitar Berbatov stands out as one of the most legendary figures in this rivalry, with his transfer from Tottenham Hotspur to Manchester United marking one of the most iconic moments in football history. While playing for the Lilywhites from 2006 to 2008, the Bulgarian striker emerged as one of the league’s lethal strikers. However, when Manchester United expressed interest in him, he declined a new contract from Tottenham Hotspur as well as an offer from Manchester City in favor of joining the Red Devils. Ultimately, he achieved success by winning two Premier League titles with United.

Cover Credits - Sky Sports