Manchester United vs. Arsenal Preview: The Red Devils have the ultimate chance to thwart the Gunners title hopes!
Manchester United vs. Arsenal. As the Premier League title race reaches its crescendo, all eyes turn to a pivotal clash at Old Trafford where Manchester United play host to Arsenal in a showdown brimming with narrative intrigue. The Red Devils, languishing in 8th place after enduring a season marred by inconsistency under the helm of Erik ten Hag, find themselves presented with an unexpected opportunity – the chance to play spoiler to the Gunners’ championship aspirations. With Arsenal locked in a fierce battle for the top spot and their hopes hanging in the balance, the pressure is on for Mikel Arteta’s side to secure a vital victory against a resurgent Manchester City breathing down their necks with an impeccable run of form.
However, history isn’t on Arsenal’s side as they seek to conquer their Old Trafford demons, having last tasted victory at the iconic stadium in 2006 with fans in attendance. Despite United’s recent struggles and injury woes, Arsenal must tread cautiously, mindful of their opponents’ potential to spring a surprise. With memories of their 3-1 triumph at the Emirates Stadium still fresh, Arsenal will aim to replicate their success on enemy territory and keep their title dreams alive in the face of adversity.
Manchester United vs. Arsenal – Team News
Manchester United’s injury woes are just horrendous. It just goes from bad to worse. Mason Mount picked up yet another injury in training this week. Almost all center-backs are out with injury. Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, Raphael Varane, and Willy Kambwala are certainly all out. Jonny Evans was not 100% against Crystal Palace but may feature against Arsenal. Lisandro Martinez is also back in training but this Manchester United vs. Arsenal clash will come too early for him.
Tyrell Malacia and Luke Shaw are also out. Anthony Martial remains out. Bruno Fernandes, Scott McTominay, and Marcus Rashford are all touch and go after they missed out at Selhurst Park, but they could feature.
Arsenal, on the other hand, have a perfect injury record. They have no injuries whatsoever. Bukayo Saka and Takehiro Tomiyasu have minor knocks but should feature regardless. Jurrien Timber may also make an appearance as well as he’s back with the squad for Manchester United vs. Arsenal. He has been playing with the U23s to get his match fitness back.
Key Players:
Manchester United: André Onana
During Manchester United vs. Arsenal, the Red Devils’ United’s hopes will heavily rely on the performance of André Onana between the posts. Amidst the team’s recent struggles, Onana has stood tall as a beacon of resilience, consistently making crucial saves to keep United afloat. Overcoming a shaky start to the season, he has emerged as one of the Premier League’s finest shot-stoppers, boasting impressive statistics with 2.5 goals prevented (ranking 5th in the league) and 3.9 saves per game (the 3rd highest in the PL). His exceptional passing ability adds another dimension to United’s play, potentially unlocking opportunities from deep against the Gunners’ defense.
Arsenal: Declan Rice
On the Arsenal side, Declan Rice has swiftly established himself as a linchpin in the midfield, becoming a key figure for Mikel Arteta’s side in a remarkably short time. Beyond his tactical contributions, Rice serves as a motivator and driving force for the Gunners, instilling energy and determination in his teammates. His importance was underscored by his match-winning goal against United in the previous encounter, and he’ll be eager to replicate that feat, fueling Arsenal’s quest to stay in the title race. With his blend of defensive solidity, distribution prowess, and knack for timely contributions, Rice embodies Arsenal’s spirit and will be instrumental in their pursuit of victory at Old Trafford.
Manchester United vs. Arsenal – Key Statistics
- Arsenal have a damning record at Old Trafford, winning just once in the last 16 Premier League fixtures there.
- The last time that Arsenal beat United at Old Trafford with fans was in 2006.
- United are without a clean sheet in their nine games.
- Mikel Arteta’s side have kept 10 clean sheets in Premier League away matches this season, more than United have in total.
- In slightly more positive news for United fans, Arsenal have only won one of their six away league games in the current campaign against the other teams currently in the top eight – a 3-2 victory at Spurs two weeks ago.
- The Gunners have lost their last Premier League away game in three out of the last four seasons without scoring.
- Arsenal could create a club record of 27 wins in a 38-match league season, should they beat the Red Devils in Manchester United vs. Arsenal.
Manchester United, despite the home advantage, go into this game as the clear underdogs, priced at 13/2 on bet365. Arsenal are the clear favourites, priced at 4/11.
By Nicky Helfgott / @NickyH3lfgott on Twitter
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