Was the derby victory more than just a flash in the pan?
Michael Carrick will remain in charge of the Red Devils until the end of the season and will therefore also be on the sidelines for the Arsenal vs. Manchester United tip. The Carrick era may even extend beyond this season – but for that to happen, successes like the one against Manchester City (2-0) cannot remain a one-off highlight.
Unlike his predecessor Ruben Amorim, the 44-year-old sent his team onto the field with a back four, often letting United defend in a clear 4-4-2 formation. His players were more vertical than ever and defended their lead much more solidly than in the weeks and months before (2.27:0.47 xG). In the Arsenal vs. Manchester United prediction, a hurdle with different conditions now awaits.
The Gunners control their games with an elite defense that has conceded only 15.56 expected goals in the English top flight (1st). The second-best expected defense has conceded almost ten more expected goals (Newcastle: 24.03 xGA).
Mikel Arteta and his professionals currently have a seven-point lead over their closest rivals, Manchester City.
For the Red Devils, the focus on quick transitions is unlikely to be as effective as it was in the Manchester derby. However, Carrick’s team can certainly stick to many of their defensive tactics and the exemplary commitment of all their outfield players.
In addition, the Gunners have struggled in front of goal recently, failing to score in two consecutive Premier League games (0-0 against Nottingham and Liverpool).
Arsenal – Manchester United Head-to-head record / H2H record
At home, Arteta’s side have won their last four Premier League matches against Manchester United. Added to this is a run of six unbeaten PL games against the Red Devils (5W, 1D), which at least does not diminish the league leaders’ status as favorites.
A notable dynamic has developed in recent encounters. On the first matchday, Arsenal won 1-0 at Old Trafford – it was the fourth consecutive meeting in which the spectators saw a maximum of two goals in the game.
Arsenal – Manchester United Tip
Michael Carrick did not shy away from difficult decisions in his first appearance in the Manchester derby. The 44-year-old benched Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha. Instead, Bryan Mbeumo started in the center of the attack, supported by Bruno Fernandes, who was back in the number 10 role.
Kobbie Mainoo and Casemiro formed the central midfield duo, who found excellent coordination and clearly divided their tasks. Manchester United put in perhaps their best performance in years and now want to confirm this against the league leaders.
The latter has recently had problems, especially in attack – at least at Premier League level. Viktor Gyökeres has always been in the starting lineup in the English top flight, but has rarely shone with high-percentage finishes, let alone goals. His Spanish coach has often highlighted other elements of his game. Gabriel Jesus’ brace in the Champions League against Inter Milan (3-1) could present Mikel Arteta with a tricky decision.
