The English Premier League (EPL) delivers another blockbuster clash this weekend as Manchester United host Arsenal at Old Trafford on Sunday evening. With kickoff set for 5:30 PM Nigerian time, both teams are gearing up for a high-stakes encounter that could have significant implications for their respective seasons.
The Context
Manchester United come into the match fresh off a thrilling 3-2 victory over Ipswich Town, while Arsenal played out a goalless draw with Nottingham Forest in their last outing. The last time these two giants met was in December 2024, when Arsenal secured a 2-0 win at the Emirates Stadium, thanks to goals from Jurrien Timber and William Saliba.
This time, Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal will be looking to complete a league double over United and close the 16-point gap to league leaders Liverpool. Meanwhile, United boss Ruben Amorim is plotting revenge and hoping to steer his team further away from the lower half of the table.
Team News: Arsenal
Arsenal have no new injury concerns, but they will still be without key players:
Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli remain sidelined.
Long-term absentees Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, and Takehiro Tomiyasu are still unavailable.
Myles Lewis-Skelly is back from suspension and available for selection.
Arteta has admitted that United are capable of a strong performance, especially after their recent Europa League display against Real Sociedad. However, the Gunners will be determined to maintain their dominance over United this season.
Team News: Manchester United
United’s injury woes continue to mount, with several key players unavailable:
Harry Maguire and Manuel Ugarte are out after picking up knocks against Fulham.
Patrick Dorgu is suspended following his red card against Ipswich Town.
Amad Diallo (ankle) and Kobbie Mainoo (calf) are injured.
Mason Mount, Jonny Evans, and Luke Shaw remain long-term absentees.
Lisandro Martinez is out for the season after ACL surgery.
Backup goalkeepers Altay Bayindir and Tom Heaton are also sidelined.
Despite these challenges, Amorim will be hoping his team can rise to the occasion and secure a much-needed win to climb from their current 15th position on the table.
What’s at Stake?
For Arsenal: A win would complete a league double over United and reduce the gap to Liverpool to 13 points, keeping their faint title hopes alive.
For Manchester United: A victory could provide a much-needed boost, helping them move up the table and build momentum for the remainder of the season.
Key Players to Watch
Arsenal: Martin Ødegaard and Declan Rice will be crucial in midfield, while Leandro Trossard could step up in the absence of Saka and Martinelli.
Manchester United: Bruno Fernandes will need to lead by example, while Rasmus Højlund will be tasked with finding the back of the net.
Prediction
This match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams desperate for points. Arsenal will be favorites given their recent form and United’s injury crisis, but Old Trafford has a way of inspiring the Red Devils in big games.