Match Preview: Manchester United vs Arsenal

Manchester United vs Arsenal | Premier League | Old Trafford | KO: 16:30 | Sky Sports

Manchester United are on a roll, following their emphatic 5-0 victory over RB Leipzig in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday night. They now face Arsenal at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon, hoping for another three points in their pursuit of a top four finish.

Arsenal, managed by Mikel Arteta, are also in the conversation with regards to qualifying for next season’s Champions League, and a win over The Gunners will put United in a strong position to finish above the away side this campaign.

How Do Manchester United Look?

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The Reds stunned many with their performance over Leipzig in the week. They played fast, aggressive football, the likes of which has not been seen at Old Trafford for years. Hattrick hero Marcus Rashford will undoubtedly start against Arsenal, as a lone striker in the absence of the suspended Anthony Martial.

Brazilian midfielder Fred put in a combative display in midweek and will be hopeful of getting a place in this weekend’s starting eleven.

His fellow countryman Alex Telles will, however, play no part in the fixture. On Thursday, he announced on social media that he is self-isolating, following a positive test for Coronavirus, meaning Luke Shaw will retain his place in the side.

United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer confirmed that there are no new injury concerns for the squad, and that they escaped the Leipzig fixture unscathed.

“There were no injuries which of course is a big plus when you think of every game we play and the intensity” said the boss, meaning only Telles, Eric Bailly, Jesse Lingard and Phil Jones have been officially ruled out of the Arsenal clash.

Opposition: Arsenal

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A traditional rival of Manchester United, Arsenal sit 12^th in the Premier League, two points ahead of United.

In their last two league fixtures, they have lost 1-0 to both Leicester City and Manchester City. The former came last Sunday, with Jamie Vardy scoring the only goal of the game.

In terms of injuries, the main concern for the away side is the fitness of David Luiz. The Brazilian picked up a muscular injury against The Foxes and is a doubt for the clash at Old Trafford. Young centre back William Saliba may be in contention to replace Luiz and make his debut for Arsenal.

Key Stats

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Arsenal last won at Old Trafford in September 2006.

Arsenal have gone 29 away matches against “big 6” opposition without a win.

So far this season, for Manchester United, Bruno Fernandes had the most goals and assists, most chances created, most final third entries, most penalty box entries, most tackles made and most shots on target. He is THE crucial player for United in the system Solskjaer is looking to play.