Two players have a point to prove here. Viktor Gyökeres and Benjamin Šeško, as both will want to kick off with a bang, but Arsenal are the favourites heading into the match and are expected to register an away win at Old Trafford
Match info: Premier League
Venue: Stamford Bridge, Manchester
Date: Sunday, 17th August 2025
Time: 4:30 pm Nigerian time
The headline act of a blockbuster opening Premier League weekend, Manchester United and Arsenal battle it out at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon, as both outfits aim to take the first step towards restoring their former glories.
The erstwhile dominant forces of the English game, the Red Devils can hardly fare worse than their disastrous domestic campaign of 2024-25, while the Gunners are sick of silver medals.
Head-to-head:
- Manchester United have won 26 of the 66 Premier League meetings between the two teams.
- Arsenal have recorded 21 victories.
- The remaining 19 clashes ended in draws.
- The last match between these two teams ended in a 1-1 draw.
- Manchester United won on penalties against Fiorentina in their last game.
- Arsenal won 3-0 against Athletic Club in their last game.
- 9 of their last 10 encounters in all competitions produced at least 2 goals.
Form:
- Manchester United pre-season form: D-W-W-D-D
- Arsenal pre-season form: W-W-L-L-W
Team News:
- Lisandro Martínez will be unavailable for the home side. New signing Sesko might only make the bench after missing out on pre-season.
- Arsenal, on the other hand, will be without Gabriel Jesus and Riccardo Calafiori due to their respective injuries. While Gabriel is available, depending on match fitness.
Player(s) to watch:
- Bruno Fernandes joined Manchester United in 2020 and has arguably been their best player ever since. He was their top goalscorer in the Premier League last season and has established himself as a true leader of the team. Bruno has registered three goals and one assist during the pre-season, and fans will be expecting a great game from him against Arsenal.
- Bukayo Saka has been exceptionally consistent for Arsenal in the last few years. Despite his young age, he is regarded as one of the best right-wingers in world football. Saka possesses all the qualities to be the best player in the world, as he is creative, explosive, and highly technical as well.