The biggest match of the Premier League weekend takes place at Old Trafford as two English giants collide. Manchester United will host Arsenal on Sunday night. The home side, who started the weekend in 14th place, will be hoping to pour water on the smallest spark the Gunners have in their pursuit of the title. Here are the key things to look out for in the match.
1. Contrasting Fortunes: United’s Decline vs. Arsenal’s Title Push
Manchester United and Arsenal were two of the Premier League’s dominant forces in its first decade, winning nine out of ten titles. However, in the last ten years, neither has tasted league success, though both have finished as runners-up multiple times.
Two years ago, Manchester United finished third behind the Gunners, but last season, the Red Devils dropped to eighth, while Arsenal fell just short of champions Manchester City. This year, despite some setbacks, Arsenal are once again the closest challengers to runaway leaders Liverpool. Meanwhile, United have struggled, sacking Erik ten Hag and bringing in Rúben Amorim, yet frustrations persist.
Head-to-head, Arsenal have had the clear advantage in recent years, winning the last four meetings. However, the last time these teams faced each other was in the FA Cup third round at the Emirates, where Amorim’s side triumphed on penalties to advance. That win should give United some confidence heading into Sunday’s fixture.
2. Injury Woes for Both Sides
Manchester United will be without Lisandro Martínez and Amad Diallo for the rest of the season due to injuries. On the other side, Arsenal will also be missing key players, with Gabriel Jesus, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Kai Havertz ruled out for the remainder of the campaign.
United also have other concerns, with Luke Shaw, Jonny Evans, Mason Mount, and Kobbie Mainoo still some way from returning. However, on the bright side, Harry Maguire might be available for selection against Arsenal. For the Gunners, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli won’t return until April.
Injuries have undoubtedly impacted both teams. United and Arsenal could argue they would be in a better position had these players been available. For Arsenal, Saka, Martinelli, and Havertz form their first-choice front three. Meanwhile, Martínez, Mainoo, and Diallo were all starters for Amorim when fit.
3. The Impact of Midweek European Fixtures
Both Manchester United and Arsenal were in European action midweek. Arsenal thrashed PSV Eindhoven 7-1 away in the first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 tie. Meanwhile, United were held to a 1-1 draw in Spain by Real Sociedad in the first leg of their Europa League Round of 16 clash. For both teams, European glory represents their best chance of silverware this season, especially for United.
Having secured a massive first-leg win, it would take something drastic for Arsenal not to qualify for the quarter-finals. As a result, they can fully focus on Sunday’s trip to Old Trafford. With a six-point cushion over the team behind them, the Gunners are relatively secure in their quest for a top-four finish and Champions League qualification for next season. The same cannot be said for United.
For Amorim, there is little more than pride at stake on Sunday. United are clear of any relegation concerns, but they are also far from securing a European spot for next season. Their biggest priority lies in the second leg against Real Sociedad on Thursday, where they have everything to play for.