Match Preview: Arsenal vs Manchester United Sunday, January 25, 2026
Match Preview: Arsenal vs Manchester United
Venue: Emirates Stadium
Date: Sunday, January 25, 2026
Kick-off: 16:30 GMT
Overview: The "Carrick Effect" Meets the League Leaders
Manchester United travel to North London with renewed belief under interim head coach Michael Carrick. Following a masterclass 2-0 victory in the Manchester Derby last weekend, the Red Devils are looking to break a long-standing hoodoo at the Emirates, where they haven't won in the league since 2017.
Carrick’s side currently sits in 5th place, but a win today would firmly cement their status as top-four contenders. Meanwhile, Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal sit at the top of the table, unbeaten in their last 12 games and boasting a formidable home record.
Manchester United Team News & Injuries
The latest player injuries and squad updates from Carrington:
Defensive Stability: Despite the absence of Matthijs de Ligt (back injury), the duo of Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martínez is expected to start again after keeping a clean sheet against Erling Haaland.
Midfield Engine: Casemiro, who recently confirmed he will leave the club at the end of the season, is set to partner Kobbie Mainoo in a double-pivot that provided perfect balance last week.
Attacking Boost: Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo have returned from AFCON duties, giving Carrick plenty of "variety" upfront. Benjamin Šeško is pushing for a start after his recent scoring run, while Matheus Cunha remains a lethal option off the bench.
Absentees: Joshua Zirkzee (muscle knock) remains sidelined along with De Ligt. Noussair Mazraoui is a late doubt following his return from international duty with Morocco.
Key Match Stats & "Match Results" History
H2H Dominance: Arsenal are undefeated in their last 9 home matches against Manchester United in all competitions.
Defensive Wall: The Gunners have conceded only 14 goals in 22 games this season.
The Bruno Factor: Bruno Fernandes leads the Premier League in chances created (62) and assists (9). He will be the "difference-maker" if United are to unlock the Arsenal defense.
Tactical Focus: Can Carrick Disrupt Arteta?
Expect Carrick to stick with the 4-2-3-1 formation that brought success against City. The strategy will likely involve:
Direct Transitions: Utilizing the pace of Amad and Dorgu on the wings to exploit Arsenal's high defensive line.
The "Rashford" Narrative: With Marcus Rashford currently on loan at Barcelona and rumors of a permanent 2026 exit swirling, United's current frontline is playing to prove there is life after their former star man.
Set-Piece Discipline: Arsenal are the league's most dangerous team from dead-ball scenarios. Maguire’s aerial presence will be vital.
Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1)
Lammens; Dalot, Maguire, Martínez, Dorgu; Casemiro, Mainoo; Amad, Fernandes, Mbeumo; Šeško.
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