Manchester United vs. Arsenal, 17 August 2025
Arsenal opened their 2025, 26 Premier League campaign with a slender but crucial 1–0 triumph over Manchester United at Old Trafford. The match was decided early on, Riccardo Calafiori rose to head in Declan Rice’s inswinging corner in the 13th minute, capitalizing on a miscue by United’s goalkeeper Altay Bayindir.
Despite dominating possession and firing off a staggering 22 shots, United couldn’t convert opportunities into goals. Their attackers, especially new signings Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, were lively and tested the Arsenal defense repeatedly, with Dorgu even rattling the post.
Arsenal’s goalkeeper, David Raya, produced several crucial saves to maintain the clean sheet
Ruben Amorim, managing United, remained optimistic. He praised his team’s aggression, pressing, and attacking intent, emphasizing that they were “not boring,” despite the outcome.
United’s goalkeeping decision, opting for Bayindir over André Onana, came under scrutiny following the error that led directly to Arsenal’s winner.
For Arsenal, Mikel Arteta’s team leaned on their familiar strength: set pieces. The victory reinforced their enduring effectiveness from corners, a product of tactical coaching and execution.
However, critics noted that the overall performance lacked cohesion and attacking flair, raising questions about their ability to impose their game, despite the crucial win.