Ex-Manchester United striker Louis Saha says his former club would make a “massive statement” if they can secure a win at the Emirates this evening.
Ruben Amorim is unbeaten following his appointment as Red Devils boss but, speaking to Casino Utan Spelpaus, Saha said facing a club of Arsenal’s calibre will be the biggest test the new head coach has faced so far:
“The players need to actually use this platform against Arsenal to create an improvement benchmark. Arsenal is definitely a different type of animal to the opponents that Amorim has faced so far. The quality of Arsenal going forward is just amazing and will provide way more trouble that we had against Everton. Definitely, it’s going to be a big test and United need to be in their top form and full of confidence.”
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“Tactically, it will maybe provide a bit more understanding, because he may have chosen a certain type of plan based on the players that he’s got. Maybe you will see something closer to the first 11 that he wants to play week in week out. It will be a huge test, but if they do win, it’s a massive statement. I’m sure the manager is looking forward to this type of fixture.”
United are underdogs heading into the match
Not many give Amorim’s side much of a chance of getting anything from tonight’s fixture. Their opponents are on a roll, having scored 13 goals in their last three matches.
The bookmakers have given United long odds of around 7/1 to 8/1 to come away with the three points. In stark contrast, the Gunners are priced as short as 4/11 for the victory.
Team news ahead of Arsenal v Manchester United
Amorim has suffered a big blow in the build-up to the game. Luke Shaw has confirmed that he has suffered a setback which means he won’t be available for the trip to North London.
The left-back joins the likes of Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans on the treatment table. Both Lisandro Martinez and Kobbie Mainoo will also not feature after picking up suspensions against Everton last time out.
Find out who is in Manchester United’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here