A Premier League gameweek 23 fixture between Arsenal and Manchester United promises to be an eye-catching encounter with the Gunners playing hosts at the Emirates Stadium and Mikel Arteta facing Michael Carrick, who are coming from two different ends of a widening title race.
Arsenal continue to lead the table even after a disappointing 0-0 draw against Nottingham Forest. The result in their last match denied them an opportunity to increase their lead over United, who had won the derby against Manchester City, but defeats for City and Aston Villa meant that even after the draw, Arteta’s side were still seven points ahead. Any disappointment was quickly wiped out on Wednesday when Arsenal hammered Inter Milan 3–1 away to secure a spot in the Champions League knockout stages with a game remaining.
Arsenal haven’t played at the Emirates in 4 games, where they have been unshakable. Arsenal have not lost a game at home this season across all competitions, with 14 wins and 2 draws. Their excellent record is one of the main reasons why they are considered as favourites to win the game on Sunday.
On the other hand, Manchester United are full of confidence. With Carrick’s influence been felt straight away, and a crushing 2–0 victory over Manchester City at Old Trafford is just one example of the impact he has had. The win put United in the Champions League race again, leaving them only one point short of fifth place. The Red Devils have netted goals in the last 11 matches combined, but the defence still needs upgrading, especially when you consider the away games.
The statistics are also on Arsenal’s side. The Gunners have won five out of their last six Premier League matches against United, including a hard-fought 1–0 victory at Old Trafford last August. United have found it hard to keep clean sheets while playing away, and this unwanted habit may well be punished by the league’s most frequent goal scorers.
Everyone is talking about how the return of the two key players to their teams’ line-ups will be a game-changer, but the truth is that the teams will be almost at their full strength. Arsenal have injuries and United are expected to name the same XI that beat City in the derby last weekend. Even though Carrick’s team bring the momentum to the match, Arsenal’s home form and defensive strength make them the most likely team to pick up 3 points after another polished performance against their rivals.
