Sir Alex Ferguson claimed that Tottenham Hotspur won't ever lift a Premier League title and insisted that Manchester United stand a much better chance right now.
As United gear up to host Spurs at Old Trafford today, Ange Postecoglou will no doubt be eager to secure the three points following an inconsistent start to their campaign. A boost in morale is also needed for Erik ten Hag's squad as they strive to recover from last week's Europa League stalemate with FC Twente - and also aim to overtake Spurs in the league table.
Despite Spurs outdoing United last term by finishing fifth and the Red Devils finishing eighth, Ten Hag's outfit won the FA Cup - marking their second consecutive season with silverware. Meanwhile, Tottenham's quest for a trophy continues on since their League Cup victory back in 2008.
The London club's closest shot at the Premier League title came in the 2015/16 season when they came third - behind rivals Arsenal and eventual winners Leicester City. Over the last two years, Postecoglou has been steering a team overhaul, maintaining his focus on reaching the top four and a return to Champions League action.
Speaking earlier this year, Ferguson was quizzed on whether he believed Spurs might secure a Premier League triumph. The former United manager couldn't help but chuckle as he firmly responded "No! ", proceeding to elaborate on why he thinks the North London club will fall short of winning the title.
He said: "No, '61 was the last time they won it, well that's a long time. The opposition today with Liverpool and Manchester City being so powerful in the Premier League. Even for United now, we're having to fight."
When quizzed on whether Spurs would claim the league before United secured their 14th title, he bluntly replied: "No chance!"
Ferguson's views on Spurs are not new, however, as he famously gave a "Lads, it's Tottenham" team talk 15 years ago. Ferguson still seems unimpressed by the London club despite their progress - including reaching a Champions League final against Liverpool.
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Despite Manchester United's dip in form since Ferguson departed, they've hoisted silverware such as the Carabao Cup, FA Cup, and Europa League - achievements that eclipse Spurs' record during the same period.
Both clubs, currently in the middle of the pack with Spurs sitting just one spot above United, have had challenging starts to the season. Managers Postecoglou and Ten Hag will be eager to see their sides climb the table as they gear up for a significant clash that could kickstart their respective campaigns.