The new Premier League season kicks off in style as Arsenal travel to Old Trafford for a blockbuster clash against long-time rivals Manchester United. With both clubs looking to lay down an early marker in the title race, Mikel Arteta’s side enter the match full of optimism following a strong pre-season and an ambitious summer in the transfer market.
The Gunners have strengthened key areas, adding quality and depth to a squad that pushed Manchester City all the way last season. New arrivals like Viktor Gyökeres and Martin Zubimendi are expected to bring fresh energy, while established stars such as Bukayo Saka, William Saliba, and captain Martin Ødegaard will be relied upon to deliver in the big moments.
Facing a United side now led by Ruben Amorim and potentially debuting Benjamin Šeško, Arsenal will need to combine tactical discipline with clinical finishing to secure all three points.
Arsenal predicted lineup vs Man United (4-3-3):
GK: David Raya
Now Arsenal’s undisputed No.1, Raya’s calmness under pressure and pinpoint passing from the back will be crucial to evading United’s press.
RB: Ben White
Offers defensive solidity and intelligent positioning, while his link-up play with Saka down the right provides a consistent attacking outlet.
CB: William Saliba
Arsenal’s defensive rock, Saliba’s anticipation, recovery pace and composure on the ball make him key to resisting United’s counter-attacks.
CB: Gabriel Magalhães
Expected to overcome recent fitness concerns, Gabriel’s aerial strength and physicality will be vital against United’s new striker, Benjamin Šeško.
LB: Riccardo Calafiori
Comfortable tucking inside or overlapping, he adds balance and defensive nous to the backline.
CM: Declan Rice
The heartbeat of Arsenal’s midfield, Rice will shield the defence and get better of United’s attacks and drive the ball forward when space opens.
CM: Martin Zubimendi
The new arrival from Real Sociedad has impressed in pre-season with his vision and press resistance, offering calm distribution under pressure.
AM: Martin Ødegaard
The captain’s creativity and ability to find pockets of space will be key to unlocking United’s backline.
RW: Bukayo Saka
Arsenal’s star winger will look to exploit United’s left flank, cutting inside to create chances and threaten goal.
ST: Viktor Gyökeres
The marquee signing offers penalty-box instincts and aerial presence, giving Arsenal a more traditional No.9 option.
LW: Gabriel Martinelli
Brings electric pace and direct dribbling, ideal for stretching United’s defence and hitting them on transitions.
Arsenal predicted lineup vs Manchester United: David Raya; Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães, Riccardo Calafiori; Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi, Martin Ødegaard; Bukayo Saka, Viktor Gyökeres, Gabriel Martinelli.
