new signings, midfield woes, head-to-head record

Manchester United host Arsenal in the Premier League opener on Sunday.

Ruben Amorim is hoping his Manchester United side can bounce back and erase the memories of a turbulent first six months at Old Trafford. The Red Devils lost the Europa League final and finished 15th in the Premier League, meaning they won’t have any Champions League football for a second consecutive season.

Ineos helped Amorim reshape the team over the summer, adding Matheus Cunha, Diego Leon, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko to the squad. All four players are in contention to make their competitive debut against Arsenal this weekend.

Arsenal, on the other hand, are coming off a third straight runners-up finish in the league title race. They’ve added Viktor Gyokeres and Martin Zubimendi to the squad in hope that will bring them closer to league success.

Here are three key questions ahead of United vs Arsenal.

Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images

Who does Ruben Amorim start in attack?

United focused on strengthening their attack this summer with signings like Cunha, Mbeumo and Sesko. Fans will hope there is room for one or two more additions, although they are likely to come in midfield or a new goalkeeper.

Amorim told Antony, Alejandro Garnacho and Jadon Sancho not to return for pre-season training and all three are expected to find new clubs this summer.

All of this suggests United will have a new-look attack on show against Arsenal.

More United News

It remains to be seen if Sesko will be involved after missing United’s pre-season tour, but Cunha and Mbeumo will be expected to start.

There are question marks over Rasmus Hojlund after sitting on the bench for the final two pre-season games, before being linked with a move to AC Milan.

Can Man Utd find the right balance in midfield?

United have yet to add to their midfield and there are big question marks over the central department. Kobbie Mainoo hasn’t cemented a place in Amorim’s team, Casemiro is years past his best, the jury is still out on Manuel Ugarte, and Bruno Fernandes may be asked to play in a deeper role.

Amorim has plenty of options, but finding the right balance in midfield is crucial for United this season.

How did Man Utd perform against Arsenal last season?

United faced Arsenal on three occasions in 2024/25.

In the first meeting at the Emirates, Arsenal took three points following a 2-0 win.

United got revenge in the FA Cup third round when they beat Arsenal 5-3 on penalties.

In March, United drew 1-1 with Arsenal following a first-half opener from Bruno Fernandes.

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