Arsenal had their three-game winning run in all competitions snapped with their 2-0 defeat to Tottenham in the North London derby. The Gunners’ attack was silenced by Spurs’ excellent defense as they were held scoreless for the second time in three away games.
They remain six points off the pace in the race for the top four, although they have one more game to play than Manchesters City and United, who are currently fourth and fifth.
Arsene Wenger’s recent change in formation hasn’t quite solved all of the team’s systemic problems. However, a return home could be just what Arsenal need to bounce back. The Gunners have won three of their last four league games at the Emirates. They are 11-3-2 overall at home this season.
Arsenal have historically had a tough time against other teams in the “top 6” in the division. They have picked up just one win against Chelsea, Tottenham, Liverpool, Manchester City, and United this season, with five losses and three draws.
Manchester United are closing in on the Europa League final after beating Celta Vigo 1-0 away from home in their first leg in midweek. Marcus Rashford saved the day for United after another uneven performance from an attacking perspective. On the bright side, the injury-ravaged United defense which featured Daley Blind back at center-back held steady. United have now kept a clean sheet for the fourth time in the last six games.
With all the injuries to his squad, United manager Jose Mourinho likely won’t make too many changes to his side despite playing in midweek. That should include Rashford continuing to lead the line. Rashford scored twice in a 3-2 home win over Arsenal last year.
United have gone a club-record 25 matches unbeaten in the Premier League, but they have dropped too many points at home to capitalize and break into the top four. They’ve been much better at picking up all three points away from home, though. They are 10-4-2 in 16 away games this season, the third-best away record this season.
United have also had a very good history at the Emirates. They have lost just twice in their last seven Premier League visits to their traditional rivals (three wins, two draws).
Writer’s Prediction
Arsenal and United drew in their first meeting this season, and they play out yet another stalemate at the Emirates.
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