Rio Ferdinand on Arsenal
Image credit: Getty Images
The long-awaited 2025/26 Premier League season will get underway on Friday night, with defending champions Liverpool facing Bournemouth.
Several other fixtures are scheduled for Saturday, but the headline clash will come on Sunday when Manchester United host Arsenal.
Mikel Arteta’s men will be aiming for a strong start as they look to mount another title challenge, having finished runners-up in each of the past three seasons, a record unique to the Gunners in the Premier League era.
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has weighed in on the highly anticipated encounter, offering his personal prediction.
Speaking on punditry duties for TNT Sports, the former England defender said he expects a stalemate between his former club and Arsenal in their opening league fixture of the campaign.
Ferdinand is predicting a 1-1 draw, the same scoreline as the corresponding fixture last season, when Declan Rice cancelled out a goal from United captain Bruno Fernandes.
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The Red Devils are also seeking a positive start after enduring a dismal campaign last term, finishing 15th, their lowest league placing in over 60 years.
Manager Ruben Amorim has reshaped the squad with fresh signings and will be eager to impress.
Arsenal, meanwhile, have shown promising form in pre-season, with Riccardo Calafiori, Jurrien Timber, and Gabriel all returning from injury.
Mikel Merino with Viktor Gyokeres
Mikel Merino with New signing Viktor Gyokeres who may make his first Premier League appearance for Arsenal against Manchester United on Sunday. ( Photo Credit: Getty Images)
United will be without Noussair Mazraoui, sidelined by a hamstring strain, while Lisandro Martinez is not expected to recover from an ACL injury for several months.
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Goalkeeper Andre Onana is racing to be fit for Sunday’s clash after a hamstring problem, and striker Joshua Zirkzee is also a doubt.
For Arsenal, Leandro Trossard picked up a knock against Tottenham last month, but Arteta remains optimistic the Belgian will be available.
Gabriel Jesus is the only confirmed absentee due to an ACL injury, while new striker Viktor Gyokeres is set to lead the line for the Gunners.
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