Roberto De Zerbi's choice to hand Dominic Solanke the captain's armband for Tottenham Hotspur's Premier League trip to Manchester United has drawn sharp criticism — and with good reason.

Solanke headed in a stoppage-time equaliser at Old Trafford, a moment that will inevitably dominate the headlines. But one fortunate late goal cannot mask a season-long pattern of underwhelming displays from the 29-year-old striker.

A costly miss before a late reprieve

Spurs dominated large portions of the match, yet it was Solanke who squandered the clearest openings. He missed a one-on-one with Senne Lammens in just the 2nd minute, then wasted a second gilt-edged chance early in the second half — two ideal opportunities to put his side ahead in a Premier League match for the first time this season.

When Sandro Tonali's late cross eventually found Solanke at the back post, his header crept into the bottom corner to silence the home crowd. It was a goal that looked almost accidental in its fortune. Relief, rather than conviction, defined the moment.

The numbers tell a damning story

The statistics paint an uncomfortable picture. Solanke has managed only nine shots in the Premier League this season, with just three on target. He has won only two of 12 aerial duels, created just two chances for teammates, and has completed zero dribbles. He has also lost possession as many times through unsuccessful touches as he has tested the goalkeeper.

Across 19 league appearances in 2026, Solanke has scored four league goals. He has scored in back-to-back matches just once since joining from Bournemouth in 2024. Earlier in the season, he missed a North London Derby at home through illness.

Was the armband the right call?

De Zerbi addressed the decision directly: