Manchester United have been handed two massive blows before their clash against Arsenal. Star kid Kobie Mainoo and Lisandro Martinez have been suspended for the clash to be played at the Emirates stadium. This is a new headache for new manager. Ruben Amorim saw his side thrash Everton by a scoreline of 4-0 last matchday. However, the Gunners’ at home is the first formidable test for the new manager.
In their previous clash, these two players received silly yellow cards which have them suspended for this highly anticipated clash. This is one of the most fierce rivalries in England and missing out on two key players is a massive blow for any team. Mainoo is one of the most important midfielders for United this season. He initiates the press and performs with all his energy on the pitch. Now it’s up to the manager how he’ll set his team up for this encounter.
Arsenal set to miss key players for Manchester United clash as well
Arsenal are in an injury crisis at the moment. They simply can’t catch a break from raining injuries this season. Although, captain Martin Odegaard is back from injury and performed exceptionally well last game against West Ham, they have some injury concerns going into this game.
The biggest worry for Arsenal is the availability of their defender Gabriel. He has been a wall for the Gunners’ this season, who had to be substituted last game due to injury concerns. It’ll be a massive blow for Mikel Arteta if the Brazilian misses this fixture.
Speaking to the press, Mikel Arteta addressed this issue. He says;
“It was related to the previous injury he had in Lisbon,” he explained. Obviously, he did great to be part of that but with that result and with the niggle that he’s feeling, we decided to take him off.”
Defenders Ben White and Tomiyasu are likely to be unavailable for this clash due to injuries. Midfielders Thomas Partey and Mikel Merino are also doubtful to feature in this clash. The Gunners’ heavily rely on this players, missing them will be a massive blow.
Partey has been brilliant for Arsenal this season, shielding the defence at every occasion. He compliments the team so well. The Ghana international has turned out to be one of the most crucial players for Mikel Arteta. If he misses the game, Jorginho will most likely feature alongside Declan Rice.
Match Predictions: Who are the favourites to win this clash?
It is felt that the Gunners’ are the favourites heading into this highly anticipated clash. They have been performing exceptionally well in the league and the Champions league. Bukayo Saka is breathing fire this season with his stellar performances every game.
Manchester United have struggled this season. However, Ruben Amorim might show them a ray of hope. The Red Devils desperately need this win to cheer their spirits up. The Portuguese manager showed glimpses of promise last game against Everton.
Arsenal’s biggest advantage is that the game is being played at the Emirates. It has been their fortress this season. The atmosphere backs the team to put in more for the badge. Although, they might miss a few players, I feel that Arteta is tactically more superior to Amorim.
It’ll be a very competitive game, with chances on both ends. Both the teams are highly talented and have young legs to run in behind each other’s defenses. The team to score first, will likely set the tone for the rest of the game. Given, Arsenal’s experience it is felt they are the favourites heading into this tie. A mouth watering fixture awaits!
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