Arsenal kicked off their Premier League title bid with a 1-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford, thanks to a well-executed set-piece routine. The Gunners, who had made several signings during the summer transfer window, including Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres for £55m ($75m), were without fit-again goalkeeper Andre Onana and striker Rasmus Hojlund.
Arsenal took the lead in the 13th minute through a headed goal from Riccardo Calafiori, with Declan Rice’s corner causing chaos in front of Manchester United’s goal. Altay Bayindir was powerless to stop the ball from finding its way past him, and the visitors held firm against a Manchester United team that pushed hard for an equalizer.
Gyokeres, who played 45 minutes before being substituted at halftime, showed promise but struggled to make an impact on his Premier League debut. He will be hoping to build on this performance in their next game against Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium.
Manchester United’s new striker, Benjamin Sesko, made a positive impression off the bench, with the 22-year-old displaying a willingness to press from the front and tussle with defenders. However, his first touch needs some time to sharpen up, and his timing on crosses will take a few games to develop.
Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya was excellent, making several key saves to deny Manchester United chances, including a superb low-save stop from Matheus Cunha in the first half. The win brings Arsenal’s unbeaten run in their past 15 Premier League away games to an end.
United manager Erik ten Hag may need to address his team’s confidence issues around the penalty area, where they were repeatedly caught out by United’s opponents’ set pieces. Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville praised goalkeeper Ozan Bayindir for his efforts but urged him to be stronger in defending corners.
In contrast, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was pleased with his side’s performance, particularly from their new striker Gyokeres, who showed flashes of brilliance on his debut. Arteta will hope that his team can build on this result and continue their title push.
The win sets the stage for United’s next game against Fulham away from home, while Arsenal face Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6556019/2025/08/17/man-utd-arsenal-highlights