Barclays Premier League: Manchester United Vs Arsenal Preview

This Sunday, we see United go head to head with Arsenal at Old Trafford in a match.

It’s been a tough start at Manchester United for David Moyes. A string of poor performances from United have led to people doubting Moyes’ credentials. Underwhelming performances against Chelsea, Liverpool and Shakhtar Donetsk have left many united fans frustrated, while recent results against West Brom and Southampton have left many questioning the aura that surrounds Old Trafford. Although they were emphatic against an in-form Liverpool side last week and extremely impressive in Europe last night, they cannot be considered as title contenders yet, and so will have a point to prove against Arsenal on Sunday.

Arsenal on the other hand have seemed to thrill everyone and have been fairly dominant since the arrival of German playmaker Mesut Ozil, except two losses against Dortmund and Chelsea at home. All this being said, Arsenal will be coming into this clash off an amazing performance against Dortmund that saw Arsene Wenger’s side victorious at Iduna Park, something no English side had done before. 

Tom Cleverley came off at half-time with double vision during United’s 3-1 at Craven Cottage, but is expected to return to Moyes’ squad on Sunday. After missing the same game with a calf and Achilles problem, Michael Carrick is also targeting the showdown for a return. Danny Welbeck is carrying a knowck.

Jack Wilshere is a major question for Arsenal as he battles to shake off a lower leg damage. He missed Wednesday’s win in Dortmund and is likewise anticipated that will be out for England’s friendlies against Chile and Germany. Arsene Wenger will be imploring Mathieu Flamini recoups from his groin injury – the French midfielder’s gravel and steel will be significant in what guarantees to be a furious battle.

Last 5 Fixtures:

Arsenal 1-1 United (PL)
United 2-1 Arsenal (PL)
Arsenal 1-2 United (PL)
United 8-2 Arsenal (PL)
Arsenal 1-0 United (PL)

If previous fixtures are to be considered, Arsenal really has a lot to prove and improve on to beat United’s dominant record over them. The match could go either route, however on the basis of form and by and overall performances in all rivalries this season, I tip Arsenal to win this one in a nearby and energizing tie.

All-in-all, both sides will be desperate for a win on Sunday against one of their biggest rivals. Arsenal keep answering every question asked of them. United’s performances keep raising questions about the new regime. Don’t expect this trend to change. Arsenal to win 2-1.

Predicted Team:

Arsenal: Szczesny; Sagna, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Gibbs; Arteta, Flamini; Ramsey, Cazorla, Ozil; Giroud

Manchester United: De Gea; Smalling, Vidic, Ferdinand, Evra; Carrick, Fellaini, Januzaj, Valencia, Rooney; Van Persie