Manchester United and Arsenal renew their historic rivalry this weekend as the Premier League returns with a blockbuster opener at Old Trafford on Sunday evening.
Match Preview
United enter the new campaign determined to put last season’s nightmare behind them. After finishing 15th – their lowest-ever position in the Premier League – the club has invested heavily in a new attacking force. Manager Ruben Amorim has been backed with close to £200 million worth of signings, including Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko. The goal is clear: to restore attacking spark and push the Red Devils back into the top half. A strong start is vital, but they face a stern test against one of the title favourites.
Arsenal, meanwhile, are eyeing the crown after three straight second-place finishes. Their consistency under Mikel Arteta has kept them in the conversation, but now they want to go one step further. The addition of Viktor Gyokeres addresses the long-standing need for a clinical striker. Victory at Old Trafford would be the perfect way to begin their 100th consecutive season in the top flight and reinforce their status as genuine contenders.
Head-to-Head and Key Stats
Last season, the three encounters between the sides were evenly shared, with each side winning once and the other match ending in a draw. Old Trafford remains a difficult hunting ground for Arsenal, with United losing only two of their last 18 home league fixtures against the Gunners. However, Arsenal have managed to score in each of their last 11 visits to Manchester.
United boast the record for most wins on Premier League opening weekends (22) and are beginning their campaign at home for a record ninth straight season. Arsenal come into the game unbeaten in their last 14 away league fixtures, although defensive frailties late last season remain a concern.
Players to Watch
United captain Bruno Fernandes has been influential in this fixture, scoring twice against Arsenal last season. For the visitors, Gyokeres will be eager to make his mark and could join a rare list of debutants to score against United at Old Trafford.
Predicted Line-ups
Manchester United: Onana; Yoro, Maguire, Shaw; Dalot, Dorgu, Fernandes, Ugarte; Mbeumo, Cunha, Sesko
Arsenal: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Rice, Zubimendi, Odegaard; Saka, Martinelli, Gyokeres
Kick-off is set for 6:30pm East African Time.
