Prediction: Arsenal vs Manchester United

Verdict: Under 2.5 Goals

Best Odds: 10/11

Bookmakers: William Hill

Arsenal welcome Manchester United to the Emirates for the game of the weekend in the Premier League. The Gunners have been on somewhat of a hot streak recently, and are unbeaten at home all season. United meanwhile have found themselves in a period of relative inconsistency, but they remain the closest challengers to league leaders Manchester City. This fixture has a history of being a fiery affair, and it remains a must win game for both sides.

Arsenal

The Gunners had an inconsistent start to the season, but their home form has carried them and allowed them to maintain their customary fourth spot in the Premier League table. Arsene Wenger’s men have won all seven of their games at the Emirates in this campaign, scoring a remarkable 20 times in the process. Their unbeaten streak includes a 2-0 North London Derby win over their eternal rivals Tottenham, though that result does represent their only win over a traditional top six club this season.

It is away from the Emirates where Arsenal have struggled, and they have lost some very winnable games along the way. Defeats away at Stoke and Watford are not conducive to a title-winning season, but it is the results against Liverpool and Manchester City that are perhaps more worrying. The Gunners conceded seven goals across those two away games, scoring just once themselves. Unless they can consistently beat, or at least grind out draws, against top six opposition, Arsenal will struggle to challenge for the title.

Team News

Alexandre Lacazette picked up a groin injury that will likely keep him out of this game, while Alex Iwobi will face a late fitness test regarding a dead leg. Laurent Koscielny could be rested in the midst of what is a gruelling fixture schedule.

Manchester United

Jose Mourinho’s side have had an incredibly impressive season so far, but they have been somewhat overshadowed by the remarkable form of their noisy neighbours Manchester City. Aside from the fact that United currently sit eight points behind their city rivals, the fact alone that they have scored 32 times in 14 league games suggests that they are in decent form. Their last game ended in a 2-4 away win at Watford, which was fairly uncharacteristic of a United side that had conceded just six times before last weekend. Mourinho teams are famed for their defensive solidity, and this side has been no different to the norm.

Away from Old Trafford however the Red Devils have been inconsistent at best, and all of their losses and draws have come on the road. Mourinho’s men registered a shock loss at Huddersfield, and were defeated in slightly less surprising circumstances at Stamford Bridge. Add to that draws against Stoke and Liverpool and you have reason for concern, especially as City are yet to lose a game this season.

Team News

Nemanja Matic left the game against Watford early with an injury, and it appears unlikely that the midfielder will be back in time for this clash. Ander Herrera will likely come in to replace him.

Phil Jones and Eric Bailly are both nearing a return, but will face late fitness tests ahead of this game. Zlatan Ibrahimovic could start this game with Lukaku struggling for goals.

Key Factors to Consider

• Arsenal have won all seven of their home league games this season.
• The Gunners have also scored 20 times at the Emirates in this campaign.
• Manchester United have won four of their seven games away from home.
• Both of the Red Devils’ losses this season have come on the road.
• Arsenal have conceded just four times at home so far.

Conclusion

Both teams have found scoring to be relatively easy this season, but Jose Mourinho has a history of killing games like these. Earlier this season Manchester United travelled to Anfield and ground out a 0-0 draw, neutralising Liverpool’s devastating attack. It isn’t difficult to see that happening again here, especially given how successful Arsenal have been at the Emirates. A draw doesn’t suit United, but it might be what they end up aiming for. With that being the case, a low scoring game seems the safest bet.

Verdict: Under 2.5 Goals

Best Odds: 10/11

Bookmakers: William Hill