Arsenal vs Manchester united MATCH PREVIEW – Premier League 2025/26 | OneFootball

Arsenal welcome Manchester United to the Emirates Stadium on Sunday afternoon for a fixture that rarely needs additional narrative weight yet arrives this time carrying genuine significance for the Premier League table.

With a 4.30pm GMT kick-off on January 25, 2026, this meeting pits the league leaders against a resurgent United side beginning to find clarity and momentum under interim head coach Michael Carrick.

For Arsenal, this is about control – of the title race, of a flawless home record, and of a season that has so far been defined by composure and authority. For Manchester United, it represents opportunity: to validate a morale-boosting derby win over Manchester City, to push into the top four, and to test themselves against the most complete domestic side in the division.

Current Form

Arsenal (Last five matches: W–D–W–W–D)

Arsenal’s momentum remains largely intact despite a brief domestic stall. A frustrating 0–0 draw away at Nottingham Forest last weekend interrupted their rhythm in the league, but the response was emphatic in midweek as they dispatched Inter Milan 3–1 at San Siro in the Champions League. That victory extended Arsenal’s unbeaten run to 12 matches across all competitions and underlined the maturity of a side that can manage different tempos and environments.

At the Emirates, Arteta’s team has been particularly formidable. They are yet to lose at home this season and have conceded just five league goals there – the best defensive home record in the division. While draws against lower-table opposition have crept into their league form, Arsenal remain seven points clear at the summit and have lost none of their authority.

Manchester United (Last five matches: W–L–D–D–D)

Manchester United arrive in north London in far better spirits than they did earlier in the campaign. Last weekend’s 2–0 derby victory over Manchester City was not only emotionally significant but also tactically encouraging. Carrick’s side were disciplined without the ball, purposeful in transition, and ruthless when chances arrived – hallmarks that had been missing for long stretches this season.

United now sit fifth in the table, just one point off the Champions League places. While defensive inconsistencies remain an issue, their attacking threat – particularly in open games – means they will travel to the Emirates believing Arsenal can be tested.

Recent meetings have gradually tilted in Arsenal’s favour. The Gunners edged United 1–0 at Old Trafford earlier this season, a result that set the tone for their early title charge. Across the last five league encounters, Arsenal have generally looked the more cohesive unit, especially at home, where United have struggled to impose themselves in recent years.

Historically, this fixture has produced defining moments at pivotal points in seasons. While legacy counts for little on the pitch, Arsenal’s recent ability to manage games against elite opponents gives them a psychological edge heading into Sunday.

Predicted Lineups

ARSENAL (4-3-3)

MANCHESTER UNITED (4-3-3)

Tactical Preview & Key Battles

This contest is likely to hinge on territory and control rather than chaos. Arsenal will dominate possession, building patiently from the back and attempting to pin United’s wingers deep. United, conversely, are expected to sit in a compact mid-block, seeking to disrupt Arsenal’s rhythm and exploit space in transition.

Midfield control

Declan Rice’s role is pivotal. His ability to screen United’s counter-attacks while supporting Arsenal’s build-up will be crucial. United will rely on Casemiro and Mainoo to break lines and release Fernandes early, particularly into the channels behind Arsenal’s full-backs.

Wide areas

Bukayo Saka versus Luke Shaw is a duel that could define Arsenal’s attacking success. Saka’s ability to isolate defenders and deliver from wide positions remains Arsenal’s most consistent source of penetration. United, meanwhile, will look to exploit the opposite flank through Amad Diallo when Arsenal commit numbers forward.

Central defence vs transition

With Arsenal pushing their defensive line high, United’s pace up front could pose problems if transitions are not managed cleanly. Arsenal’s recovery runs and counter-press will need to be precise to prevent United from creating high-quality chances.

Arsenal’s home record, defensive stability, and ability to manage high-stakes fixtures give them the edge. United’s attacking threat and renewed confidence suggest they are capable of scoring, but sustaining that level for 90 minutes against the league’s most balanced side remains a demanding task.