Arsenal vs Manchester United

MetLife Stadium is the venue as Arsenal and Manchester United go head-to-head in a blockbuster summer friendly as part of their United States tour.

Despite securing a place in the Champions League group stages for the first time in seven years, Arsenal cannot be pleased with a runner-up finish in the 2022/23 Premier League season. Mikel Arteta’s men were leading the way for most of the campaign before being swept away by perennial champions Manchester City down the final stretch. A gut-wrenching season finale saw the ‘Gunners’ move decisively in the market as they secured the services of Kai Havertz, Declan Rice, and Jurrien Timber. The former two made their Arsenal debuts in a 5-0 demolition of MLS All-Stars’ team in midweek, which saw the Londoners post their first pre-season victory following a brace of underwhelming 1-1 draws against Nurnberg and Watford.

On the other hand, Manchester United broke a six-year title drought with last season’s Carabao Cup triumph. Moreover, manager Erik ten Hag guided his side to a top-four Premier League finish in his first season in charge, helping the ‘Red Devils’ return to the Champions League after a season-long absence. Inspired by a decent maiden campaign at Old Trafford, the Dutchman has overseen back-to-back friendly triumphs over Lyon and Leeds United this summer. Both wins saw Man Utd keep a clean sheet and fail to score before halftime, highlighting the potential for a cagey opening. Against this backdrop, United’s last four meetings with Arsenal have seen over 3.5 goals and both teams on the scoresheet.