Manchester United vs Arsenal Preview
Jose Mourninho squares off against old nemesis Arsene Wenger in what is a standout Premier League fixture. The game on Saturday at Old Trafford, the home of Manchester United is more than just about points, it’s about making an impact.
The Build-Up
While the game will largely revolve around the Mourinho-Wenger rivalry, it’s also the sort of game that will determine if Manchester United have any chance to challenge for the title. At the same time, it’s an opportunity for Arsenal to overcome the jitters and win at the ground where they have faced so much misery over the last decade. The Gunners are without Hector Bellerin who misses out due to a ligament damage.
A decision regarding Sanchez’s availability will be taking prior to the game. The United- Arsenal derby is seemingly not what it used to be. The days of Viera against Keane, Keown against Nistelrooy are what have made this fixture such a hotly contested one.
Mourinho vs Wenger (again)
The Special One is up against Le Professeur. Wenger in his 20 years at Arsenal has never beaten Mourinho in the Premier League. Jose, however, seems to have lost the special touch and charisma that has defined him as a top manager over the years. After a dismal last season with Chelsea leading to his sacking, the Portuguese has had a poor start to life at Old Trafford. Tactically, both managers are complete opposites. Mourinho uncompromising in defense while Wenger uncompromising in attack.
It will be interesting to see if Jose does set up his team to attack Arsenal from the onset or if he will surrender possession to play on the counter. Wenger needs to solidify his defense. Mustafi and Koscielny have been excellent. The weak link in Arsenal’s defense will be at right back. Bellerin’s injury is a huge blow and means Jenkinson is likely to step-up returning from his long injury lay-off.
Key Battles
Anthony Martial vs Shkodran Mustafi
Martial has found himself rather sidelined after initially bursting onto the scene. With Zlatan’s suspension, the young Frenchman could find himself with an opportunity to cement his place in the team. Mustafi has brought much needed aggression and solidity to Arsenal. The German is also very adventurous and should be wary of overplaying the ball.
The Arsenal defense will also need to be wary of the young Rashford during the game.
Paul Pogba vs Granit Xhaka
Two marquee signings, two powerful midfielders. Pogba seems to be weighed down by his world record fee and is clearly not playing to his full potential. The Frenchman has shown signs of bursting into life with exquisite goals and will be important if United want to control the midfield. He is no doubt a world class player when on song.
Granit Xhaka has become a fan favorite after two stunning goals initially. His sending off against Swansea was a wake up call for the Swiss and he has responded well, scoring against Ludogorets and particularly dominating against Spurs. The Swiss international’s ability on the ball and his efforts at creating attacks will be key as Gunners are set to be without creative midfielder Santi Cazorla.
Phil Jones vs Mesut Ozil
While it’s not sure if Jones will play, it looks likely considering long term injuries to Smalling and Bailly. Mourinho may also prefer him to match Olivier Giroud physically rather than Blind. It has been a while since the English defender has played regularly for United and will be keen to impress. He will be tasked with handling Mesut Ozil and overcome Giroud, physically.
The German did not receive the call up for Germany’s international games during the break and will be raring to go after a two week break.
Make Or Break
The highly anticipated fixture promises to be a cracker. United’s title hopes could be dashed if they lose as it would leave them more than 10 points behind the league leaders. Arsenal, on the other hand, need a win to cement their title ambitions. With Chelsea and Liverpool in top form and City blazing forward, both teams cannot afford to lose.
For Gunners, this might be the best time for Arsene Wenger to hand Mourinho a defeat. While the Manchester United manager would hope his past record will come to the rescue against Arsenal.