Arsenal find themselves one point behind Manchester United after their draw to Tottenham. The Gunners will have to pass United eventually to get themselves back into the top four. This is about as good a chance as they’ll get. With their Europa League campaign in doubt, this is potentially the most important game of their season. They can’t afford to lose this one.
This game is equally important for Manchester United. While they are flying high after their historic comeback against Paris-Saint Germain in the Champions League, the league is still their most important competition. They need to hold off Arsenal in their pursuit of the Champions League and this is a good opportunity to open up a gap between the two.
Team News
Arsenal have recovered from their short term injuries, but they will still be without Rob holding, Hector Bellerin and Danny Welbeck through long term injuries. They will also be without Lucas Torreira as he is suspended for the next three matches after his red card against Tottenham.
Manchester United have a much longer injury list. They will be without Matteo Darmian, Alexis Sanchez and Antonio Valencia, while Eric Bailly, Ander Herrera, Jesse Lingard, Juan Mata, Nemanja Matic, Phil Jones and Anthony Martial are all doubts, according to Physioroom.com.
Key Players
Arsenal: Henrikh Mkhitaryan
After an up and down season, Mkhitaryan has rounded into good form. He has two goals and three assists in his last three league matches. He has really helped the Gunners attack function since he came back into the side. He is especially important in big games as he helps give the team structure and presses well for an attacker. He’s already scored against his former club once and he’ll be hoping to do it again on Sunday.
Manchester United: Marcus Rashford
Rashford has been one of the key beneficiaries of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s appointment. He has been in fantastic form since the new manager came in and has been playing as a striker more. The resurgence of Romelu Lukaku means he may not play up top by himself, but, regardless of where he plays, he can hurt the Gunners with his pace and finishing ability.
Prediction
Both teams will think this is a must-win game. Their league campaigns both hinge on finishing ahead of the other, so they’ll both go out looking for a win. That said, if the game is tied late, they could both succumb to the feeling of not wanting to lose and see this game end in a draw.
Prediction: 1-1 Draw
