Match Overview

Arsenal welcome Manchester United to the Emirates Stadium in a high-profile Premier League clash with plenty on the line. The hosts edged the last league meeting between these sides 1-0 in August 2025. Arsenal’s recent form shows improved rhythm and goals, while United arrive with solid away returns and momentum after a clean-sheet win over Manchester City. Expect an intense, tactical contest decided by small margins.

• Fixture: Arsenal vs Manchester United
• Competition: Premier League
• Venue: Emirates Stadium
• Date: 25-01-2026
• Kickoff: 16:30 GMT / 16:30 UTC

Predicted Lineups

Arsenal

• David Raya
• J. Timber
• W. Saliba
• Gabriel Magalhães
• M. Lewis-Skelly
• Martín Zubimendi
• D. Rice
• Mikel Merino
• M. Ødegaard
• V. Gyokeres
• B. Saka

Manchester United

• S. Lammens
• L. Shaw
• Diogo Dalot
• P. Dorgu
• L. Yoro
• Casemiro
• Bruno Fernandes
• M. Mount
• K. Mainoo
• B. Mbeumo
• A. Diallo

Injury & Suspension Report

Arsenal

• M. Dowman – Ankle Injury
• P. Hincapié – Groin Injury
• R. Calafiori – Muscle Injury

Manchester United

• J. Zirkzee – Knock
• M. de Ligt – Back Injury

Head-to-Head

This rivalry has produced numerous decisive moments over a long history. Across 203 meetings, Arsenal have 71 wins, Manchester United 83, with 49 draws. Matches typically approach three goals on average, and the most recent league encounter finished 1-0 to Arsenal. The trend suggests tight margins with momentum swings possible for either side.

Match Analysis & Prediction

Press and possession: Arsenal’s control vs United’s counters

Arsenal’s recent performances point to a clear identity: quick combinations, a high press, and measured control through midfield. That approach is likely to meet Manchester United’s more direct, counter-attacking phases, where transitions and set pieces become pivotal. The midfield balance—featuring D. Rice, Mikel Merino, Martín Zubimendi and the creativity of M. Ødegaard—will be central to dictating tempo against United’s experienced operators.

Form guide and momentum

Arsenal have three wins in their last five and 10 goals in that span, reflecting a sharper attacking edge and improved rhythm. They have also shown pragmatism against similarly matched opponents with a return of one win, one draw and one loss. Manchester United’s away form has been steady—two wins and two draws in the last five on the road, with 10 goals scored—and they come in off a 2-0 win over Manchester City. United sit fifth with 35 points from 22 matches (nine wins, eight draws, five defeats), underscoring their resilience.

Key players and matchups

For Arsenal, Ødegaard’s supply line to V. Gyokeres and B. Saka will be critical, supported by Rice’s control in front of the back line. The defensive unit of J. Timber, W. Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães and M. Lewis-Skelly must manage United’s runners and protect against counters. For United, Bruno Fernandes’ chance creation, Casemiro’s screening, and the movement of B. Mbeumo and A. Diallo offer clear threats. Arsenal’s recent clinical moments, including a notable brace by Gabriel Jesus in European action, highlight their potential cutting edge even if selection varies.

Injuries, depth and selection notes

Arsenal list defensive absences with P. Hincapié and R. Calafiori sidelined, placing emphasis on the available back four to maintain stability. United’s options are trimmed by the absence of J. Zirkzee and M. de Ligt, which could influence their attacking focal points and defensive rotations. With both sides managing key absences, control of midfield and efficiency in both boxes should decide the outcome.

Prediction: Arsenal 1-1 Manchester United.