What was once a title defining fixture in the PL is now a somewhat “regular” match, however it still carries a special feeling to it. It’s a long way to the top for the Gunners, as they prepare to take on the Reds of Manchester. It’s Arsenal Vs Manchester United in a Saturday classic showdown.
Match Preview
Both Sides are in the best forms in the league lately, Although they are 10 points and 7 places apart. Let’s take a look at what to expect from Arsenal and United as we approach Kick off.
Arsenal’s form
Arsenal currently sits 9th in the league, but that is just because of their slow start. After winning just 4 of their first 14 games, the Gunners find themselves in a league of their own at the moment. They have picked up an impressive 16 points out of the total 18 available, while going unbeaten in their last 5 league games of which they have won 4. Arsenal were kicked out of the FA Cup by Southampton, however they were able to take their revenge in the league.
Of course 9th place is not where Arsenal dream of being, but they will take the progress on a positive while building their future with Arteta. Therefore, the early pressure on the boss is certainly eased now as he prepares to extend Arsenal’s unbeaten run. In addition, they were able to keep an impressive 4 clean sheets in their last 5 games with Leno on high form.
Manchester’s Form
On the other hand, United were dealt a major reality check by bottom side Sheffield United, as they were beaten 2-1 at home on Wednesday. However, before that they were on a 13 game unbeaten run as they sit 2nd in the league. The last team that were able to beat them before Sheffield? Arsenal in the reverse meeting when they won 1-0 at Old Trafford.
Consistency is a key factor in Solskjaer’s quest to win a trophy, we already spoke about that. Will he be able to repay United’s trust in him? Or will it be the same old story when they start to fade away with time? Ole will hope that the loss on Wednesday was just a small “bump in the road”, as he continues to take charge of the wheel. But for how long? We shall see. The test against Arsenal tomorrow is a huge one, he must overcome it to keep the pressure on their rivals City for top spot.
Team News
Arsenal made a huge loan signing the other day, by bringing Norwegian talent Odegaard to the Emirates. Will Arteta take a chance and play him from the start? Or will he at least make the bench, in case Arsenal needed some creativity? The boss said it was still “a bit early to decide” so let’s wait and see.
As for other players, the Gunners could be missing some key ones. The situation with Aubameyang is still unchanged as he is still out for personal reasons. Till now, it is unsure whether he will play or not. In addition, Emile Smith Rowe and Kieran Tierney are all doubts through injury. As for Partey and Ceballos, they are expected to be fit for the game.
Solskjaer however will have to assess his options at centre-back ahead of the game. Eric Bailly picked up a knock in training that kept him away from the game on Wednesday, but he seems ready to return. Also, Lindelof was rested due to his ongoing back problem. Luke Shaw was only rested as Telles started at left back, so we expect him to be ready to start tomorrow. Brandon Williams looks set to return after a spell on the sidelines, while Phill Jones remain unavailable. Other than that, United looks to have a full squad for the trip to the Emirates, let’s see how Ole will pick his starting lineup.
Match Predicition
This will be a tough game to call. United’s defeat to bottom side Sheffield does not make it any easier. Which United side will we see? Solskjaer will definetely want his team to react, which could mean going for the 3 points and not settle for a draw. On the other hand, Arsenal are on an amazing run and finally things are starting to get better for Arteta. He will do anything to extend it and prove to everyone that he is the right man for the job.
It is the perfect test to see both’s true credentials. If United want to keep their hopes of winning the league, this is their chance. If Arsenal want to keep their hopes of finishing in the top 4, this is also their chance. Considering all the factors, we could see this game ending in a draw. However, it should be a high scoring game especially if Arsenal were boosted with the return of some key players. The most logical bet here should be over in goals while backing both teams to score, despite Arsenal’s clean sheet run. In terms of results, we think Arsenal should at least come away with a draw so draw no bet on them seems just about right.
Current Odds
- Over 2.5 goals: 1.80
- Both Team To Score: 1.66
- Arsenal Win/Draw: 1.53
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