Manchester United are in desperate need of a good result. With only one win in their last five Premier League matches, they are in danger of falling behind in the top four chase. A result against Arsenal would be vital in their chase for Champions League football. A loss could send their season spiralling out of control.
Arsenal have had strong results so far this season, but their performances are worrying. Winning when not playing well is important, but the Gunners will need to start playing well soon. They’ll need to do so to get their first league win at Old Trafford since 2006.
Team News
Manchester United have quite a few injury absences. Eric Bailly, Anthony Martial, Phil Jones and Timothy Fosu-Mensah have all been ruled out, according to Physioroom.com. On top of that, Marcus Rashford, Paul Pogba, Luke Shaw, Diego Dalot and Angel Gomes are doubts to play.
Arsenal have one key absence with Alexandre Lacazette still out through his ankle injury, according to Physioroom.com. Emile Smith Rowe will miss out with a concussion, while Hector Bellerin and Konstantinos Mavropanos will be absent after playing for the under-23s on Saturday.
Key Players
Manchester United: Paul Pogba
Pogba’s fitness could play a huge factor in the direction of this match. His impact will be felt, whether that’s for his performance on the pitch or through his absence. Pogba is responsible for much of United’s ball progression through midfield. They have struggled to progress the ball and create chances in his absence. They will need him to be fit and at his best to beat Arsenal.
Arsenal: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
A number of Arsenal’s wins this season have come purely because they have the best striker on the pitch. Aubameyang has scored six goals in six games, more than half of Arsenal’s Premier League goals. He’s carried the team so far and he may have to continue to do so if they are to win at the Theatre of Dreams.
Prediction
This has the makings of an extremely unpredictable match. Both teams are flawed, so it will be a matter of which team does a better job of overcoming their flaws.
Prediction: 2-2 Draw
