Manchester United vs Arsenal Prediction & Picks - Premier League

Prediction published on 8/17/25, 8:16 AM  by Erik Gibbs in Premier League Picks

Old Trafford opens the new campaign with a heavyweight clash as Manchester United host Arsenal on Sunday. United begin their first full season under Rúben Amorim determined to bounce back into the top four after a disappointing finish last year. Preseason was encouraging and unbeaten, with sharper pressing and cleaner build-up patterns. Summer additions were targeted: striker Benjamin Šeško offers vertical threat, Bryan Mbeumo adds direct wing running and crossing, and Matheus Cunha increases depth and versatility across the front line.

Fitness is a subplot. Lisandro Martínez could be short of full sharpness, and goalkeeper André Onana is working toward readiness. Even so, United's spine—Onana, Casemiro, and Bruno Fernandes—should provide structure.

The tactical chess match should hinge on midfield tempo. If Arsenal could rapidly transition via Zubimendi and swap a full-back to get into overload positions, they could pull United's configuration and get to Gyökeres in a flash.

Fernandes continues to be the creative linchpin, floating across lines, controlling set pieces, and overlapping with full-backs. Amorim's template features rapid transition, early diagonals, and vehement counter-pressing after giveaways to jam opponents in and generate short-field opportunities.

If United's counter-press bites and Fernandes springs runners like Mbeumo and Šeško into space, Arsenal's high line can be tested. Wide duels feel decisive: Saka versus United's left-back, and Rashford or Garnacho attacking gaps behind Arsenal's own full-backs. Set pieces are another lever—both sides possess aerial threats and rehearsed routines capable of tipping tight openers.