ARSENAL v MANCHESTER UNITED
Two games into his reign as Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta’s record reads thus – one draw and a loss. Their opponents, Manchester United have won their last two games – against Newcastle United and Burnley. It is the game that changed everything. From the wonder hit by Wayne Rooney to end Arsenal’s 49 games unbeaten run to the 8-2 trouncing at Old Trafford to Van Persie leaving Arsenal to Manchester United and the going on to win the Premier League title, and finally, Jesse Lingard millyrocking at the Emirates. Pure emotions, history. A perfect blend of poetry at the Emirates.
The initial signs have been great for Arsenal fans, many of whom have clamored for a new tactical approach and a sign of passion from the players. Following the loss against Chelsea, Arsenal is closer to the bottom of the table than they are to the top which was their initial aim at the beginning of the season. Key to Arsenal’s pattern of play at the moment is Pierre Aubameyang, who has scored both goals under the tenure of Mikel Arteta. The Gabonese striker has scored 50% of Arsenal’s goal in the Premier League, which stands at 13 goals at the moment. However, his strike partner, Lacazette hasn’t been so lucky with his form and getting games. The Frenchman has found the back of the net five times in the Premier League this season.
With the imminent departure of Granit Xhaka, the Arsenal midfield would need a very good replacement. However, for the Manchester United game, Arsenal might just lose the midfield battle to Manchester United whose players have begun to hit form.
The newfound form of academy graduate, Marcus Rashford, has coincided with the uprun in form of much-criticized Anthony Martial, who has found the back of the net in his last two games three times. The combination of both players, mixed with the blistering pace of Daniel James will cause Arsenal a lot of problems, especially at left-back. With Bukayo Saka, who is not a left-back playing at left-back, it is only imaginable that he would be targeted by the Manchester United forward players who are enjoying their football at the moment. In midfield, Fred has come into his own, with bossing performances recently. With United’s performance against big teams this season, especially the 2-1 win at the Etihad, it is without a doubt that they go into this game as favorites.
The newfound form of academy graduate, Marcus Rashford, has coincided with the uprun in form of much-criticized Anthony Martial, who has found the back of the net in his last two games three times. The combination of both players, mixed with the blistering pace of Daniel James will cause Arsenal a lot of problems, especially at left-back. With Bukayo Saka, who is not a left-back playing at left-back, it is only imaginable that he would be targeted by the Manchester United forward players who are enjoying their football at the moment. In midfield, Fred has come into his own, with bossing performances recently. With United’s performance against big teams this season, especially the 2-1 win at the Etihad, it is without a doubt that they go into this game as favorites.
