Arsenal’s Dominant Form
Arsenal have been unstoppable since the November international break, winning three consecutive matches by margins of three or more goals. Their latest triumph, a 5-2 demolition of West Ham, saw all seven goals scored in an extraordinary first half, a Premier League record-equalling feat. Mikel Arteta’s side has now scored 12 goals in three games, a testament to their attacking prowess.
The Gunners remain unbeaten at the Emirates this season (W10, D2) and are on a 12-game scoring streak in all competitions at home. This match marks a significant milestone as the Emirates hosts its 500th competitive club game. Adding to their motivation, Arsenal could achieve a historic fourth consecutive league victory over Manchester United for the first time and aim to replicate their 1970s feat of scoring 3+ goals in four successive home league meetings against the Red Devils.
United’s Resurgence Under Amorim
New Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has steadied the ship since his appointment, guiding the Red Devils to an unbeaten start under his tenure (W2, D1). Their most recent outing, a 4-0 dismantling of Everton, showcased a rejuvenated attack, with Marcus Rashford and Joshua Zirkzee both scoring braces. While Amorim acknowledged room for improvement, the result marked United’s biggest league win since August 2021.
United have only lost one of their last 12 matches across all competitions (W6, D5), but their away form remains a concern. They have failed to win in their last six games on the road (D5, L1), with their only away victory this season coming at Southampton. History at the Emirates also doesn’t favor United, who have lost their last three league visits and haven’t won there since a 3-1 FA Cup victory in January 2019. United come into this game as massive underdogs, with odds around 7.0 reflecting their uphill task. Their poor away form—winless in their last six matches on the road (D5, L1)—adds to the challenge, as does their recent record at the Emirates, where they’ve lost their last three league visits. Despite this, United will look to lean on their historical success in late kick-offs against Arsenal. Interestingly, the Gunners have won just two of their 17 Premier League meetings with United to kick-off at 7pm or later (D9, L6), a stat that may give the visitors a glimmer of hope.
Key Battles to Watch
Arsenal’s Set-Piece Specialists: Arsenal’s proficiency from corners has been remarkable, netting 20 goals from such situations since the start of last season—a league-high. Gabriel Magalhães has been particularly dangerous, scoring five times from corners in that span.
United’s Counterattacking Threat: Marcus Rashford’s pace and finishing will be vital for United, particularly as he has scored four goals in his last three meetings with Arsenal, including one in each of his last two visits to the Emirates. United’s strategy may hinge on exploiting transitions, given Arsenal’s attacking commitment.
Injury Concerns
For Arsenal, Mikel Merino, Thomas Partey, and Myles Lewis-Skelly remain sidelined, while Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu are long-term absentees. United look to have the more concerning injury list, with captain Bruno Fernandes listed as a doubt after an ankle scare against Everton, however it seems likely that come Wednesday night we will see his name in the starting lineup given his record of playing through injuries. Lisandro Martínez and Kobbie Mainoo are suspended, which look set to be damaging absences for United. Harry Maguire is fit again and could replace Martínez, but Jonny Evans, Victor Lindelöf, and Leny Yoro may still be unavailable.
