JAKARTA - The big match was immediately presented in the inaugural week of the 2025/26 Premier League when Manchester United hosted Arsenal at Old Trafford, Sunday evening local time, August 17. The two English giant clubs are both ambitious to restore their glory after last season failed to meet expectations.
After the chaotic 2024/25 season in which United only finished in 15th place, Ruben Amorim remains given full trust for his first full season at Old Trafford. Without involvement in European competitions, United's focus is entirely on the domestic league.
Their pre-season is quite positive with five unbeaten matches, including winning the Premier League Summer Series trophy. The presence of new striker Benjamin Sesko, together with Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, is expected to revive the front line. Bruno Fernandes also survived despite receiving a big offer from Saudi Arabia.
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However, United are still having problems with several injuries. Leandro Martinez (lutut) and Noussair Mazraoui (hamstring) are confirmed to be absent, while Joshua Zirkzee and Andre Onana are back and ready to play.
United have an impressive record in the Premier League opener with 22 wins, the most among other teams. If they win, the Red Devils will also make history as the first team to beat Arsenal 100 times in all competitions.
On the opposing side, Arsenal closed pre-season with a 3-0 win over Athletic Bilbao at the Emirates Cup. Viktor Gyokeres scored his first goal, Martin Zubimendi provided assists, while Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz also contributed goals.
Despite being defeated by Tottenham and Villarreal, solid performance against Bilbao gave Mikel Arteta's troops optimism. With the squad almost complete, only Gabriel Jesus (knee injury) was absent. Leandro Trossard is expected to recover in time.
Arsenal are now determined to end the runner-up curse that haunts the last three seasons. Victory at Old Trafford will extend their record of scoring in the last 11 Premier League games at United headquarters.
Although Manchester United are investing heavily in the front lines, it will take time for their new players to adapt. Meanwhile, Arsenal has shown solidarity between Zubimendi and Gyokeres. Plus a solid backline with Gabriel Magalhaes' return, Arsenal is predicted to be able to steal a thin win.
Manchester United (prediction): Onana; Yoro, Maguire, Shaw; Dalot, Casemiro, Fernandes, Dorgu; Mbeumo, Cunha; Sesko.
Arsenal (prediction): Great; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Gyokeres, Martinelli.
Prediction: Manchester United 0-1 Arsenal
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