Man United and Spurs Struggle With Fitness Deficits in Premier League
Running data shows both clubs rank low in physical metrics, a lag experts say is difficult to correct mid-season.
By Luana Sato ·
Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are facing scrutiny over their physical performance in the 2026-27 Premier League season.
Both clubs rank near the bottom of the league in key running statistics, including distance covered and sprinting speed. United sit last in average maximum speed, trailing the top team by a gap of 5.34 kilometers in sprinting and 44.6 kilometers in total distance. Tottenham sits 16th in distance covered, a metric that has concerned manager Roberto De Zerbi.
The physical lag appears linked to limited conditioning work during the summer. Multiple sources indicated that both clubs performed little to no dedicated physical training over the break. United summer signing Youri Tielemans noted in August that preseason focused primarily on ball work. De Zerbi also acknowledged that his squad lacked physical condition before the October international window, following a winless start to the league campaign.
Tactical context complicates the interpretation of these metrics. Dave Carolan, a sports science veteran, explained that running data must align with a team's specific game model. High-pressing teams typically cover more ground, while possession-heavy sides may sprint less. United average 55% possession, an increase from last season, but their pressing intensity remains average, with a PPDA of 12.8. Captain Bruno Fernandes criticized the lack of man-to-man pressing after a 4-1 loss to Como, a comment that contributed to his temporary drop from the lineup.
Tottenham presents a different tactical profile. The team averages 63.2% possession, second only to Manchester City, and leads the league in pressing intensity with a PPDA of 8.5. Despite this proactive approach, their physical output has not matched their tactical intent. Early season games showed the team fading after the first 30 minutes, leading to defeats against Aston Villa and Newcastle United.
Correcting these deficits mid-season is challenging. Carolan noted that major physical preparation is difficult when squads are packed with European commitments and international duties. Experts suggest players can gain roughly 20% fitness during preseason, but coming in underprepared limits the potential for improvement. For United, the challenge is compounded by a congested Champions League schedule and a squad featuring several midfielders and defenders who rank low in athletic metrics. Tottenham has more flexibility due to a lighter midweek schedule and possesses players like Sandro Tonali and Micky van de Ven with higher physical ceilings.
The extended 2026 FIFA World Cup contributed to reduced preseason time for all clubs. Tottenham’s players logged 3,232 minutes at the tournament, fewer than rivals like Arsenal and Manchester City. The club also traveled to Australia and New Zealand for a preseason tour, trading conditioning time for travel. This preparation gap was evident in their 3-0 opening day loss to Brentford.
