The Premier League brings us a classic rivalry preview. This weekend Arsenal vs Manchester United is taking place at the Emirates Stadium. This match, set for January 25, 2026, is a big test for both teams. Arsenal are pushing hard for their first league title since 2004, while Manchester United, under new manager Michael Carrick, are trying to climb back into the top spots.
Match Details
The preview has it that the game kicks off at 4:30 PM GMT on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at the Emirates Stadium in London. It’s part of Premier League matchweek 23. UK viewers can watch it live on Sky Sports. The referee is Craig Pawson, with Paul Tierney on VAR duties. Arsenal are the home team, which gives them an edge, as they’ve won most of their recent home games against United. The weather in London should be cold but dry, perfect for fast football.
This preview comes at a key time in the season. Arsenal lead the league after a solid run, while United are in the mix for European spots. A win for Arsenal could widen their gap at the top, but United need points to keep their momentum going.
🗣️Alan Shearer when asked to predict the #Arsenal vs United game this weekend: “We know the way United are going to play. They will want Arsenal to attack them so they can hit them on the break, a classic example was the Mbeumo goal last week against City. Despite what we saw… pic.twitter.com/k4gY7UCyLs
— Arsenal News Channel (@Arsenalnewschan) January 24, 2026
Arsenal’s Recent Form
Arsenal have been in top shape this season under Mikel Arteta. They’ve built their success on a strong defense and quick attacks. In their last five league games, they’ve won four and drawn one, scoring 12 goals while letting in just three. Key wins include a big victory over Liverpool and a solid performance against Chelsea in the EFL Cup.
The Gunners control games with their pressing and set-pieces. Players like William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes have been rocks at the back. Up front, they’ve added firepower with new signings, helping them stay unbeaten at home for months. But they’ve had some close calls, like a 1-1 draw with United earlier in the FA Cup, where United won on penalties. Overall, Arsenal look like title favorites right now.
OFFICIAL: Paul Tierney has been appointed as VAR for Arsenal vs Manchester United tomorrow.
[@premierleague]
Arsenal fans will remember him because he chalked off Martinelli’s goal for Ødegaard’s soft foul on Eriksen in the build-up, as they lost 3–1 to United in 2022. pic.twitter.com/XX9o9uZqge
— mufcytp (@mufcytp) January 24, 2026
Manchester United’s Recent Form
Manchester United have turned things around under Michael Carrick. After a rocky start to the 2025-2026 season, they’ve picked up wins against tough teams like Aston Villa, though they lost 2-1 there recently. In their last five matches, they’ve won three, drawn one, and lost one, showing more fight and organization.
Carrick has focused on a balanced team, with strong midfield play and fast counters. They beat Arsenal 1-0 in a summer friendly, proving they can challenge the leaders. But away form has been mixed, and they’ve struggled against top sides. United are climbing the table, but this trip to the Emirates will test their progress.
Team News and Injuries
Both teams have injury worries going into this match.
For Arsenal, Riccardo Calafiori is back after a muscle issue, and Piero Hincapie is available despite a recent groin problem. However, young star Max Dowman is out with an ankle injury until late January. Kai Havertz has recovered from a knee knock and is ready to play. There are doubts over Ben White, Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Jesus, but most should be fit. Arteta has a strong squad, but he’ll be careful with rotations.
Manchester United are missing several key players. Joshua Zirkzee is out with a knock, and Matthijs de Ligt has an unspecified injury, with Carrick saying he’ll be sidelined for a bit. Harry Maguire is recovering from a hamstring strain and might return mid-January. Bruno Fernandes is expected to be out for a while after a recent issue. Benjamin Sesko has a knee problem, adding to Carrick’s headaches. Casemiro also has a knock but could feature. Despite this, United’s squad is mostly in good shape.
Predicted Lineups
Arsenal are likely to stick with their 4-3-3 formation, focusing on control and pressing.
Arsenal Predicted XI: David Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie; Odegaard, Rice, Zubimendi; Saka, Havertz, Martinelli.
Manchester United might go with a 4-2-3-1 to counter Arsenal’s attacks, especially with injuries in defense.
Manchester United Predicted XI: Onana; Mazraoui, Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, Dalot; Ugarte, Mainoo; Garnacho, Mount, Rashford; Hojlund. Sesko could start if fit, but Carrick might drop some underperformers.
Key Players to Watch
For Arsenal, Bukayo Saka is the danger man with his speed and goals. Martin Odegaard pulls the strings in midfield, and Declan Rice provides steel.
On United’s side, Marcus Rashford can change games with his pace, while Harry Maguire will be key in defending set-pieces. If Bruno Fernandes plays, his creativity could spark an upset.
Head-to-Head History
Arsenal vs Manchester United have met 244 times, with United winning 102, Arsenal 88, and 54 draws. However, the recent games have been tight. Arsenal won 1-0 last season, but United pulled off a surprise win earlier this year. At the Emirates, Arsenal have the upper hand lately.
Prediction
The preview says Arsenal are big favorites with a 71% chance of winning, according to stats. Manchester United will fight hard, but Arsenal’s home form and depth should win out. However, the prediction between Arsenal vs Manchester United goes Arsenal 2-0 Manchester United, with goals from Saka and Havertz. It could be closer if United’s counters click, but expect Arsenal to take the points.
Conclusion
This match is a preview of the Premier League calendar. Arsenal aim to keep their title dream alive, while United look to spoil the party under Carrick. With injuries on both sides, tactics will be key. Fans can expect an exciting game full of passion.
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