Manchester United vs Arsenal: Rivals Manchester United and Arsenal will begin their 2025-26 Premier League season with a clash on Sunday.
Both teams are looking to bounce back from a disappointing last season, though their struggles were on different levels. Arsenal finished second in the league and reached two semi-finals, while a disastrous campaign saw Manchester United finish 15th and lose the Europa League final.
Manager Ruben Amorim and his United squad are under immense pressure to improve quickly after failing to qualify for European football. A positive result against Arsenal would provide much-needed hope, but it will be a tough challenge. Arsenal, who already have a superior squad, have strengthened wisely with new signings like Martín Zubimendi and Viktor Gyökeres.
Despite their poor record at Old Trafford, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expects a win. While United have spent big on new forwards, they still lack the organization and consistency that the Gunners possess.
Here is Mainwap’s breakdown of the clash
Match Details
- Location: Manchester, England
- Stadium: Old Trafford
- Date: Sunday, August 17
- Kick-off Time: 4.30 p.m. BST / 11.30 a.m. ET / 8.30 a.m. PT
- Referee: Simon Hooper
- VAR: Paul Tierney
Manchester United vs Arsenal H2H Record (Last 5 Games)
- Man Utd: 1 win
- Arsenal: 3 wins
- Draws: 1
- Last meeting: Man Utd 1–1 Arsenal (March 9, 2025) – Premier League
Current Form for Both Teams (All Competitions)
| Man Utd | Arsenal |
|---|---|
| Man Utd 1–1 Fiorentina – 09/08/25 | Arsenal 3–0 Athletic Club – 09/08/25 |
| Man Utd 2–2 Everton – 03/08/25 | Arsenal 2–3 Villarreal – 06/08/25 |
| Man Utd 4–1 Bournemouth – 31/07/25 | Arsenal 0–1 Tottenham – 31/07/25 |
| Man Utd 2–1 West Ham – 27/07/25 | Arsenal 3–2 Newcastle – 27/07/25 |
| Man Utd 0–0 Leeds – 19/07/25 | Milan 0–1 Arsenal – 23/07/25 |
Manchester United Team News
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has confirmed his team’s lineup changes for the match against Arsenal. While defenders Lisandro Martínez and Noussair Mazraoui are out, goalkeeper André Onana is available after recovering from a preseason injury.
New forward Joshua Zirkzee, who also had a minor preseason issue, has been cleared to play. United’s new attacking trio of Benjamin Šeško, Bryan Mbeumo, and Matheus Cunha are all expected to make their competitive debuts and start against a tough Arsenal defense.
Arsenal Team News
Arsenal begins the new season with just one major injury concern: Gabriel Jesus, who has been out with a knee injury since January. Leandro Trossard is also a minor doubt with a groin issue, but manager Mikel Arteta expects him to be fit enough to travel.
New signing Viktor Gyökeres will likely lead the attack against his former manager and transfer suitors, aiming to build on his recent goal against Athletic Club. He’ll be joined by another new signing, Martín Zubimendi, who assisted that goal.
Other new players like Noni Madueke, Cristhian Mosquera, and Christian Nørgaard could make their debuts from the bench.
Manchester United vs Arsenal correct score prediction
Predicting Manchester United’s performance is always difficult, but manager Ruben Amorim will be hoping his new-look team can turn things around quickly. While their new signings should improve their attack, concerns remain about their defensive stability and midfield strength.
Despite being the superior team, Arsenal has a poor recent record at Old Trafford, managing only a draw there last season. Regardless of United’s struggles, they always make it a tough game for the Gunners.
However, Arsenal’s new players should give them the confidence to secure a crucial win on opening day, especially since they finished 13 places higher than United last season, making them the clear favorites.
Prediction: Man United 2-1 Arsenal
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