This is a key fixture in the title race this term
The Premier League title race has really heated up in the last few weeks. Manchester United have stepped into the two-way race that was once only between Manchester City and Arsenal. It is evident that Manchester United has finally arrived under Erik Ten Hag and looks really strong going forward. On the other hand, Arsenal have also maintained tempo after the World Cup despite missing their star striker Gabriel Jesus.
There has been only one loss for Arsenal in the League so far, and it was against United, which will make this highly anticipated match even more interesting. After a thrilling win over Manchester City recently, Manchester United has a lot of confidence, but the absence of Casemiro could play an important role in determining the winner.
Kick-off: Saturday, 22 January; 10:00 PM(IST); 4:30 PM (GMT)
Arsenal Form (all competitions): W-W-D-W-W
Manchester United Form (all competitions): W-W-W-W-D
Player to Watch
Arsenal
Martin Ødegaard
Martin Ødegaard is the midfield engine of Arsenal. He has produced splendid performances day after day and will be the key man in the clash against Manchester United. The Norwegian has eight goals and five assists from 17 appearances this season for Gunners. The trio of Xhaka, Partey, and Ødegaard are the driving force for Arsenal in both defense and attack. United could win the game if it neutralizes Ødegaard.
Manchester United
Bruno Fernandes
After struggling to adapt his tactics at the beginning of the season, Bruno Fernandes under Erik Ten Hag has finally found his mojo again. After the World Cup, the Portuguese has been sublime for them. He and Eriksen have been an impeccable unit in supplying goods to their attacker in the forward line. Fernandes is not only the most lethal man in United’s attack due to his work in attack but also his workrate in defence.
Match Facts
- Bruno Fernandes has created the third most chances this season in the Premier League
- Manchester United’s 1.6 goals per match average are ninth best this season
- Arsenal have the second-best home record this season
Injury and Team News
Manchester United will be without their key man Casemiro who is suspended for this clash after picking a yellow card in the last game against Crystal Palace.
Anthony Martial is still doubtful for this clash which means another start for Wout Weghorst.
Arsenal are expected to be without any big absentee as most of their big names are available for this clash. Although Mohamed Elneny is unlikely to feature after missing the North London derby due to knee problems.
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Head-to-Head stats
Matches: 237
Arsenal: 86
Manchester United: 96
Draw: 53
Predicted Lineup
Arsenal Starting XI (4-3-3):
Ramsdale; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Zinchenko; Odegaard, Partey, Xhaka; Saka, Nketiah, Martinelli.
Man Utd predicted starting lineup (4-2-3-1):
De Gea; Wan-Bissaka, Varane, Martinez, Shaw; Fred, Eriksen; Antony, Fernandes, Rashford; Weghorst
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Prediction
Arsenal and Manchester United both are coming off strong recent form. However, this clash is likely to decide the direction of the title race of the season which could make both managers adopt a cautious approach and play a waiting game. The match is likely to end on level terms.
Prediction: Arsenal 1-1 Manchester United
Telecast
UK – BT Sports
US – NBC Sports
India – Star Sports Select 1, Star Sports Select 2 and Hotstar
Nigeria – Sporty TV
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