This Sunday, the Premier League serves up a clash between two of England’s biggest names, but with very different moods. Manchester United, still reeling from their recent drubbing by Crystal Palace, host a high-flying Arsenal side at Old Trafford.
United fans are understandably downbeat after that 4-0 hammering. However, there’s a glimmer of hope with the return of several key players to training. Marcus Rashford, Lisandro Martinez, Bruno Fernandes, and Scott McTominay are all back in the mix, which could be a huge boost for Erik ten Hag’s beleaguered squad.
There’s even an outside chance of a rare appearance from Anthony Martial, who’s been battling a groin injury. But, Ten Hag has ruled out Martinez for this weekend due to a lingering calf issue.
United’s injury woes continue to plague them, with Tyrell Malacia, Victor Lindelof, Raphael Varane, Harry Maguire, and Luke Shaw all still sidelined. New signing Mason Mount is also unavailable. This might force Ten Hag to keep Casemiro in central defence, despite his shaky performance last time out.
In stark contrast, Arsenal are looking close to full strength. Manager Mikel Arteta mentioned slight doubts over Bukayo Saka and Takehiro Tomiyasu, but that could just be a bit of tactical mind games! There’s also a question mark over Jurrien Timber, who’s recently recovered from an ACL injury, but he likely wouldn’t start anyway.
Arteta has a winning team on his hands, so expect him to stick with the same formula. That means Thomas Partey will likely keep his place in midfield over Jorginho, who recently extended his contract with the Gunners.
Saka, with an impressive 20 goals this season, has a great record against United. Only Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has been more involved in goals against the Red Devils. So, despite the slight knock, expect Saka to be leading the line for the North London outfit.
Manchester United probable lineup:
Onana; Dalot, Casemiro, Evans, Wan-Bissaka; McTominay, Mainoo; Garnacho, Fernandes, Rashford; Hojlund
Arsenal probable lineup:
Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Tomiyasu; Odegaard, Partey, Rice; Saka, Havertz, Trossard
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