After a disappointing draw with Burnley at Old Trafford, Manchester United were thrashed by Crystal Palace on Monday night. On Sunday we welcome Arsenal who will be looking to maintain their title push.
Erik ten Hag’s side have fallen to eighth place in the Premier League and could go without European football next season. That is why the Reds need to get back to winning ways – this weekend against Arsenal – before it’s too late to qualify.
This United side gave up its chance of finishing in the top four. It’s not like Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur haven’t been dropping points in the league. A push that would have kept the live odds of interest.
Arsenal go into the game after a comfortable 3-0 win over Bournemouth last time out. The biggest difference between us and them is they are breezing past opponents in the league most weeks to stay within touch of Man City in the title race.
The title is in City’s hands since they’ve played one less game than Arsenal.
If we are trying to look at any of the statistics in a positive light, it would be silly to ignore that the Gunners have not won a league match at Old Trafford since 2006.
There are also stats that don’t real so well on the eye if you are a United supporter. For instance, Arsenal have won 14 of their last 16 matches in the league. That is the sort of consistency required if you want to challenge City for the title – and, even at that, it may not be enough to get them across the line.
Mikel Arteta’s side has also scored at least 2 goals in 14 of their last 16 league matches. They’ll be sniffing for blood at Old Trafford on Sunday and I know there are many fans who would prefer to see them win the league title over City. No, I would never suggest that we should throw a fixture. Would I?
The visitors on Sunday have also kept a clean sheet in six of their last eight matches (Premier League), and it’s unlikely that they will be threatened by United’s (lack of) attacking play in recent matches.
United will be without as many as 11 first-team players for this fixture. The boss may have no choice but to continue with Jonny Evans and Casemiro at centre-back.
As for Arsenal, Jurrien Timber has made appearances for Arsenal’s U21s, and could make his long-awaited return to the first team squad this weekend.
Prediction
I can’t see United getting a result this weekend. It’s not often Arsenal get a result at Old Trafford, but sadly I can’t see past them with our current form and injury problems.
Arsenal 3-0 Manchester United
