The 2025-26 Premier League season kicks off with a high-stakes match between Manchester United and Arsenal at Old Trafford. Manchester United, led by new manager Ruben Amorim, seeks redemption after a dismal 15th-place finish last season. Meanwhile, Arsenal, under Mikel Arteta, aims to finally secure the title after three consecutive runner-up finishes. Key acquisitions like Viktor Gyokeres bolster Arsenal’s attack, while United hopes new signings Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko will revitalize their offense. Opta data suggests Arsenal are favored, but United’s strong home record and historical dominance in opening matches could tip the scales. The game promises to be a critical early test for both teams’ title aspirations.
The 2025-26 Premier League season is set to kick off with a highly anticipated clash between two of English football's historic rivals: Manchester United and Arsenal. As the new campaign dawns, both teams are eager to make a statement of intent, setting the stage for what promises to be an enthralling encounter at Old Trafford.
Last season presented contrasting narratives for these two clubs. Manchester United endured a dismal run, finishing a lowly 15th—their worst-ever Premier League placing. In stark contrast, Arsenal, under the guidance of Mikel Arteta, continued their resurgence, securing the runners-up spot for the third consecutive year. This consistency has fueled expectations that the Gunners are on the cusp of challenging for the title once more.
For Manchester United, the arrival of Ruben Amorim as manager brings a sense of optimism and a clean slate. Amorim, embarking on his first full season in charge, is tasked with orchestrating a significant turnaround in the team's fortunes. The Red Devils will be desperate to erase the memories of their previous campaign and demonstrate newfound competitiveness.
Arsenal, meanwhile, are determined to finally clinch the Premier League title. Despite their impressive form and consistent top-four finishes, the ultimate prize has remained elusive. Arteta's side has been proactive in the transfer market, bolstering their squad with strategic acquisitions aimed at adding depth and quality. The addition of Viktor Gyokeres, in particular, could provide the firepower needed to convert their title aspirations into reality.
As the two teams prepare to face off, several key questions loom large. Will Manchester United's new signings gel quickly and provide an immediate impact? Can Arsenal maintain their impressive away form and secure a vital victory at Old Trafford? A closer look at the Opta data offers some intriguing insights into the possible outcomes of this weekend's match.
According to the Opta supercomputer, Arsenal have a 24% chance of winning the Premier League, second to Liverpool's 29.1%. The supercomputer predicts Arsenal to win the match with a 46.3% probability. Manchester United have a 28.3% chance to win the match and there is a 25.5% chance for a draw.
Manchester United's recent home record against Arsenal offers a mixed bag. The Red Devils have lost just two of their last 18 Premier League home games against the Gunners, winning 10 and drawing six. However, both of those defeats came under Mikel Arteta's management, suggesting a tactical edge for the Arsenal boss.
Historically, this is only the second time Manchester United have hosted Arsenal in their opening game of the season. The previous encounter, back in 1989-90, saw United emerge victorious with a 4-1 scoreline, a result they would dearly love to replicate.
A victory for Manchester United would mark their 100th win against Arsenal in all competitions, a milestone they are eager to achieve. Arsenal, however, will be determined to prevent their rivals from reaching this landmark, adding further intensity to the contest.
In their last meeting at Old Trafford, Arsenal managed to salvage a 1-1 draw, extending their scoring streak at United's home ground to 11 Premier League games. This consistent ability to find the net will give the Gunners confidence as they seek to exploit any defensive vulnerabilities.
Last season was challenging for Manchester United on multiple fronts. Their struggles in front of goal were evident, with the team scoring just 44 goals—underperforming their expected goals (xG) of 53.5. Furthermore, no United player reached double figures in league goals, highlighting their lack of a consistent goalscorer.
Defensively, United were also susceptible, conceding 54 goals. A significant portion of these goals stemmed from individual errors, with United players committing 13 mistakes leading directly to goals. Only Southampton, Ipswich Town and Chelsea committed more such mistakes.
To address these shortcomings, Manchester United have been active in the transfer market, bringing in attacking talent such as Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo. These players were among the top performers in the league last season, providing United with much-needed firepower.
Another notable addition is Benjamin Sesko, who impressed during his time at RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga. Sesko's goalscoring record suggests he could be the prolific striker United have been craving. If Sesko makes his debut against Arsenal, he will be keen to make a positive impression and showcase his abilities.
Despite their new signings, Manchester United are not considered the favorites for the match against Arsenal. However, history is on their side as they begin a Premier League campaign on home turf for the ninth consecutive season. United have a strong record in their opening league games, winning more often than any other side in the competition.
For Arsenal, Mikel Arteta has made it clear that his aim this season is to win silverware and end the club's long wait for a Premier League title. To achieve this ambitious goal, Arteta has strengthened his squad with several key signings.
The acquisition of Viktor Gyokeres addresses Arsenal's goalscoring issues. Gyokeres scored an impressive 39 league goals last season, surpassing the combined total of all of Arsenal's forwards. His arrival promises to add a new dimension to Arsenal's attack.
In addition to Gyokeres, Arsenal have also reinforced their defense with the signings of Cristhian Mosquera and Christian Norgaard. These players bring experience and solidity to the backline, making Arsenal more resilient.
Arteta recognizes the importance of maintaining their impressive away form from last season. Arsenal are currently unbeaten in their last 14 Premier League games on the road. They will look to continue this streak against Manchester United.
As Arsenal embark on their 100th consecutive top-flight season, they are determined to mark this milestone with a successful campaign. A positive start against Manchester United would provide the perfect foundation for their title aspirations.
As for players to watch, Manchester United's Matheus Cunha consistently got shots away while he was at Wolves. His 3.8 shots per 90 minutes were more than any other player in the league to play over 1,200 minutes. Arsenal's Viktor Gyokeres has been the top scorer in Europe’s top 10 leagues over the last two seasons, scoring 68 goals in 66 Primeira Liga matches for Sporting across 2023-24 and 2024-25. Time will tell who prevails in this classic rivalry.