At the beginning of the season the title race was described as a one with four horses. Early season struggles find champions Chelsea way adrift of the top. Pacesetters Manchester City succumbed their lead at the top after two straight losses. Now with the race wide open, the two teams with outside chances are meeting. It is Super Sunday. It is Arsenal vs Manchester United.
Fate for the season will not be decided by the outcome as it is only week 8. However it will be a huge test for Manchester United’s championship credentials. Home wins against Tottenham and Liverpool have been a huge morale boost for the Devils, but sometimes it’s the away games against the top teams, which are a make or break for any team.
Unconvincing, too boring, not the United way, too pragmatic. We heard it all. Louis Van Gaal’s men however could return to the top with a win against Arsenal. At the end of the day, that’s what it’s all about.
The Dutchmen mentioned Arsenal’s team as the most technically and tactically gifted team in the League, which has not won much. Struggles both domestically and in the Champions League has put pressure once again on Wenger and his team. The Frenchmam will be optimistic after star man Alexis Sanchez returned to scoring ways with a hat trick against Leicester City. They looked solid and disciplined in their approach, and played some nice football all-round.
Team News:
Arsenal’s team was dealt a blow, when revealed that they will be without Laurent Koscielny for the next three weeks. The Gunners will be also without midfielders Arteta and Flamini. The good news is that there is a timely comeback of Francis Coquelin. Rosicky, Welbeck and Wilshere are all out long term.
Van Gaal’s only real problem to deal with is the injury of Luke Shaw’s deputy Rojo. The Argentinian will be out at least until after international break. McNair and Herrera are doubtful due to match fitness and will not be risked.
Starting Elevens:
Arsenal (4-2-3-1): Cech, Bellerin, Mertesacker, Gabriel, Monreal, Coquelin, Cazorla, Ramsey, Ozil, Sanchez, Walcott
Man Utd( 4-2-3-1):De Gea, Jones, Smalling, Blind, Darmian, Schneiderlin, Carrick, Mata, Rooney, Memphis, Martial
Last Meeting: Manchester United – Arsenal 1:1 17th May 2015
Herrea’s early goal was cancelled by an own goal by Tyler Blackett in a game without much to be played for. United could not be beaten to the fourth place and could not reach the Gunners at the third.
This time around, albeit early in the season, both teams have much to prove. The pressure is on for different reasons. Van Gaal’s men will definitely have revenge in mind as well, after being thrown out of the FA Cup last season by the Gunners. Wenger will look to avenge last seasons home loss to United. Revenge, Pressure and tested Championship Credentials. Do you need anything more? Derby day. Super Sunday. Arsenal-Manchester United.
Be the first to comment