Manchester United face Arsenal next and the Red Devils will be hoping to avenge the result from the reverse fixture this season.
After an exciting pre-season in the United States, the mood around Manchester United came crashing back down to earth with a 1-0 defeat to Arsenal at Old Trafford.
New signings Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha impressed on their Premier League debuts for United, but they could not find a way past David Raya in goal.
What should be Manchester United’s front three against Arsenal?
Only three can start…. who are you picking?
Amad
Benjamin Sesko
Bryan Mbeumo
Joshua Zirkzee
Matheus Cunha
Mason Mount
Shea Lacey
Amad and Bryan Mbeumo celebrate
Photo by Darren Staples / AFP via Getty Images
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A lot has changed around United since that match back in August. Michael Carrick is now in charge until the end of the season, and fresh from the 2-0 win over Manchester City, confidence will be high heading to North London.
United fans can also expect sweeping changes at the back compared to the line-up in August.
Senne Lammens against Wolves
Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images
Senne Lammens wasn’t available vs Arsenal in reverse fixture
Arsenal won against the run of play at Old Trafford. Supporters left the stadium wondering how United didn’t at least come away with a point.
But one of the key differences was in the goalkeeping departments. David Raya had his toughest game against United, making five saves to keep a clean sheet.
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In contrast, Altay Bayindir was “unbelievably weak” in the air and was at fault for United’s defeat.
On Sunday afternoon, Senne Lammens will be available for selection, and he has proven to be a huge upgrade on Bayindir.
Senne Lammens is a clear upgrade on Altay Bayindir
How many points did Bayindir cost United at the start of the season?
Senne Lammens vs Altay Bayindir
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United signed Lammens for £18m on deadline day, meaning he didn’t make his debut until in October against Sunderland.
Why Senne Lammens will be key against Arsenal
Under Amorim, Arsenal’s set pieces were a problem to the extent that Amorim was ready to ‘steal’ Arsenal’s set pieces.
United’s set pieces are now better than Arsenal’s, so Sunday’s clash is expected to be physical and both sides will be dangerous from dead-ball situations.
In terms of defending against Arsenal’s set pieces, United need a goalkeeper willing to come and claim the ball and command his box.
That is one of Bayindir’s biggest weaknesses, but one of Lammens’ biggest strengths.
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