Manchester United vs Arsenal preview:Louis van Gaal’s Red Devils look to close in on top four
A look ahead to the Premier League fixture at Old Trafford
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.It’s a big game for…
Anthony Martial: In the absence of United’s top scorer, Wayne Rooney, the Frenchman will face Arsenal as Louis Van Gaal’s top scorer with 10 goals this season. However, he pulled up in the warm-up against FC Midtjylland and couldn't play on Thursday night. The Gunners visit Old Trafford on the back of a decent defensive display for much of the game against Barcelona in midweek – who possess arguably the best attacking trio in world football – so it is up to the 20-year-old to break it down. A decent opportunity is open for Martial to prove he can beat the best, having failed to score against any of the current top four this campaign.
Best stat…
6: Manchester United have been dominant against Arsenal in recent meetings at Old Trafford, winning six of their past eight in the league, drawing twice.
Remember when…
The Gunners comfortably beat United 3-0 earlier in the season, to end a run of eight league matches without victory. An Alexis Sanchez double and effort from Mesut Ozil killed the game off in the first 20 minutes.
Player to watch…
Danny Welbeck: The 25-year-old returns to Old Trafford, having left for Arsenal at the beginning of last season and, like all players, will want to prove to his former club what they are missing out on. An injury-plagued season has meant the Arsenal front man has made just three appearances, but scored on his return in a vital title top-of-the-table clash with Leicester City. He clearly hasn’t forgotten where the goal is during his absence and will look to make the most of what is left of the season and prove to Arsene Wenger he will be a valuable asset next season.
Past three meetings…
Arsenal 3 (Sanchez 2, Ozil) Manchester United 0, Premier League, October 2015.
Manchester United 1 (Herrera) Arsenal 1 (Blackett OG), Premier League, May 2015.
Manchester United 1 (Rooney) Arsenal 2 (Monreal, Welbeck), FA Cup, March 2015.
Form guide…
Manchester United: WWDLLW
Arsenal: WDWWDL
Vital information…
KICK-OFF TIME: 2.05pm
TV: Sky Sports 1, Sunday 1.00pm.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments