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Arsenal displayed their dominance from set-pieces again as they beat Manchester United 2-0 in the Premier League on Wednesday, December 4.
The hosts were dealt a blow as Brazilian defender Gabriel was set to miss the clash. He was replaced by Jakub Kiwior, while Oleksandr Zinchenko came in for Riccardo Calafiori.
United, meanwhile, were without the suspended Kobbie Mainoo and Lisandro Martinez. Tyrell Malacia was handed his first league start of the season, while Leny Yoro made the bench.
Neither side really got into the game in a timid first half. Thomas Partey had the best chance, missing the target from a close-range header.
Arsenal eventually took the lead in the 54th minute. Declan Rice's corner was met well by Jurrien Timber, whose header found the back of the net to make it 1-0.
Manchester United made some changes in search of an equaliser, but it was the hosts who scored again. It was from the other corner flag this time as Bukayo Saka's delivery was headed back in to the danger zone by Partey before being nodded home by William Saliba (73').
Arsenal entered the gameweek joint-second but find themselves behind Chelsea on goal difference now, while Liverpool's draw has cut the lead between the two sides to seven. Manchester United, meanwhile, have slipped back into the bottom half and are currently 11th. Here are five talking points from the game:
Arsenal vs Manchester United Talking Points
#5. Ruben Amorim's set-up begins to take shape
Questions were raised about whether new Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim would stick to his trusted three-at-the-back at Old Trafford. Despite the loss, it seems that the Portuguese tactician has begun to instil his ideas pretty quickly, as the side operated in his quintessential 3-4-2-1 shape.
#4. Arsenal continue to dominate from set-pieces
The Gunners have rightly identified set-pieces as an area of the game to establish dominance in. Two more well-worked goals indicate the great work done by set-piece coach Nicolas Jover as the North London side begin to pick their form back up.
#3. The hosts win the midfield battle
Two talented midfields came up against each other, each boasting big-money signings and real quality. However, it was Arsenal who came out on top, aided by a brilliant performance from Declan Rice.
#2. Reinforcements come in for Manchester United
United fans will be happy to see the return of Tyrell Malacia and will hope he can stay fit to be a viable option on the left flank with Luke Shaw's injury. He had a decent first half alongside Mason Mount, who will also be hoping to be a regular presence under Amorim. Finally, summer signing Leny Yoro made his much-awaited debut, looking solid in a half-hour cameo.
#1. Arsenal the top challengers to Liverpool?
The return of Martin Odegaard has seen Arsenal play some of their best football again. 15 goals in their last four games has seen them get past their opponents with ease and should Arne Slot's men face a dip in form, Arteta's side are in prime position to capitalise.
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Edited by Arshit Garg