Manchester United take on the visitors Arsenal in the round 1 match of English Premier League. The match will be played on Sunday, August 17th at Old Trafford (Manchester).
Manchester United endured a disastrous season — the textbook definition of failure. Even sacking Erik ten Hag in the autumn and appointing the seemingly promising Rúben Amorim couldn’t turn things around. Under the Portuguese, United’s league form collapsed further, while they also suffered early cup exits. Their last hope was winning the Europa League — a scenario reminiscent of Mourinho’s success in a similar situation. But in the final, Tottenham, despite their own turmoil, snatched the trophy thanks to a bizarre own goal. The summer hasn’t brought much optimism either: the board kept Amorim in charge and didn’t conduct a full squad overhaul. Marcus Rashford and several others were moved on, but for a long time, the only notable arrivals were Cunha and Mbeumo. Both are dangerous players, yet questions remain whether they can truly shine at a top club. Late in the window, they did secure Benjamin Šeško, but the pressure on him to deliver instantly is huge.
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Arsenal know they need a major triumph. Under Mikel Arteta, the Gunners have lifted domestic cups, and their strength is beyond doubt after consistently challenging Manchester City and, last season, Liverpool. They also impressed in Europe by knocking out Real Madrid in the Champions League quarterfinals. However, top-tier silverware continues to elude Zinchenko and his teammates. This summer, the club addressed key gaps: they finally landed Martín Zubimendi, long pursued by Arteta, and brought in Viktor Gyökeres — a proven striker from his Championship days with Coventry and a prolific scorer in Portugal. They also splashed over £50m on Noni Madueke, whose arrival adds pace and creativity on the flanks. Arsenal now look deeper and more complete than in previous seasons, raising hopes of a breakthrough campaign.
Arsenal had won three consecutive meetings before last season, when United held them to a league draw and knocked them out of the cup on penalties. Arsenal remain the stronger and more stable side. Expect them to claim yet another win at Old Trafford in this high-profile Premier League clash.
Prediction for the match: Arsenal to win.
