The Daily Star Ireland
Arsenal currently sits second in the Premier League, trailing leaders Liverpool by six points with a game in hand. While reclaiming the league title, which they haven’t won since 2004, seems challenging, the Gunners are in a strong position to secure Champions League qualification.
Arsenal is unbeaten in their last 10 league matches, recording six wins and four draws. Recent victories over Crystal Palace (5-1), Ipswich (1-0), and Brentford (3-1) were followed by a 1-1 draw at Brighton. However, this week they suffered a 0-2 defeat at home to Newcastle in the first leg of the League Cup semi-final. In the Champions League, Arsenal is third in their group and well-placed to progress directly to the Round of 16.
Defending FA Cup champions Manchester United are aiming to retain the trophy despite a poor Premier League campaign. Currently 13th, the Red Devils are far from meeting expectations and are well off the pace for European qualification. Under new manager Ruben Amorim, results have remained disappointing. They are winless in their last four league games, suffering heavy losses to Bournemouth (0-3), Wolverhampton (0-2), and Newcastle (0-2) before securing a 2-2 draw against league leaders Liverpool. In the Europa League, United sits seventh and hopes to secure direct progression to the Round of 16.
Arsenal remains without key winger Bukayo Saka, while defender Ben White, backup Tomiyasu, and young prospect Ethan Nwaneri are also sidelined. Manager Mikel Arteta fielded his strongest lineup in the League Cup semi-final, but it’s unclear if he will rest some starters for this FA Cup clash. Gabriel Jesus, who has scored six goals in his last six matches, may start over Leandro Trossard. The attacking trio could also include Martinelli (5 goals, 2 assists) and Havertz (7 goals, 2 assists).
For Manchester United, injuries continue to affect key players, with Luke Shaw, Victor Lindelof, and Mason Mount unavailable. Striker Marcus Rashford appears to be out of favor under Ruben Amorim. Captain Bruno Fernandes (4 goals, 6 assists) and young talent Amad Diallo (3 goals, 6 assists) are pivotal for United. Up front, Zirkzee (3 goals) and Højlund (2 goals) are competing for a starting spot, though neither has been particularly convincing.
Prediction
Manchester United’s poor away form, with six defeats in their last eight trips and 16 goals conceded, does not bode well for their chances against a resurgent Arsenal. The Gunners, chasing the title, have been in scintillating form, scoring 20 goals and earning 18 points from their last seven league games. Arsenal’s attacking momentum and United’s defensive vulnerabilities suggest a dominant display from the home side.
Prediction: Arsenal 4-0 Manchester United.
