Weghorst starts as Man Utd chase Premier League double over leaders Arsenal

Wout Weghorst kept his place in the Manchester United team to face Arsenal as Erik ten Hag backed his newest signing against the Premier League leaders.

The on-loan Dutch striker was retained as the focal point of manager Ten Hag’s attack, having made his debut in the 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace on Wednesday.

Weghorst arrived from Burnley after his previous loan at Besiktas was cancelled.

With Casemiro suspended, Ten Hag brought Scott McTominay into his midfield, the only change from the game at Selhurst Park.

It meant Weghorst would be supported by Marcus Rashford, captain Bruno Fernandes and Antony, with McTominay and Christian Eriksen anchoring the visitors’ midfield.

Leaders Arsenal’s starting XI was unchanged from their 2-0 derby win over Tottenham last Sunday, with Mikel Arteta’s team having had their lead clipped to two points after Manchester City’s 3-0 victory over Wolves.

The hosts had new recruit Leandro Trossard on the bench, after Arteta brought in the Belgian winger from Brighton and Hove Albion.

This was the first of two games in hand for Arsenal over City, giving them a chance to reassert their early season grip on top spot.

It was a game where fourth-placed United, however, were looking to complete a league double, having beaten Arsenal 3-1 at Old Trafford in September.

United remain the only side to have beaten Arsenal in the league this season.

A pre-match message from Wout! #MUFC || #ARSMUN

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) January 22, 2023