Manchester United battle Arsenal in the big game of the opening weekend of the 2025/26 Premier League season.
Title challengers Arsenal hope to finally get over the line under Mikel Arteta, with Viktor Gyokeres tipped to be the “perfect match” after his £64m move from Sporting CP.
While Ruben Amorim is in desperate need of results after a dismal debut campaign and an entirely new front three, in the shape of Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko, could accelerate the side’s development.
Martin Zubimendi adds class to the Gunners’ midfield, too, with Noni Madueke offering another wide option to bring further depth.
Here’s everything you need to know about the big game at Old Trafford.
When is Man United v Arsenal?
Man United v Arsenal headlines the Sunday action in the Premier League on 17 August at Old Trafford, with kick-off set for 4:30pm BST.
How can I watch it?
Viewers in the United Kingdom can watch the match live on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event, coverage on both channels starts at 4pm BST, following Chelsea v Crystal Palace. A live stream will be available via NOW TV and Sky Go for subscribers as well.
Team news
Benjamin Sesko begins on the bench but Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha start in Manchester United’s new-look front line.
Mason Mount joins Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes in midfield, while Andre Onana is not involved due to injury, so Altay Bayindir starts in goal.
There is no Rasmus Hojlund in the squad.
Arsenal’s new No 9 leads the line as Viktor Gyokeres starts at Old Trafford. It’s as expected elsewhere, apart from maybe at left back as Riccardo Calafiori starts ahead of Myles Lewis-Skelly.
Martin Zubimendi makes his Premier League debut alongside Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice in midfield.
Confirmed line-ups
Manchester United XI: Bayındir, Yoro, De Ligt, Shaw, Dorgu, Dalot, Casemiro, Mount, Fernandes, Cunha, Mbeumo.
Arsenal XI: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafirori; Odegaard, Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Gyokeres, Martinelli
Odds
Man United win 13/5
Draw 9/4
Arsenal win 2/1
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Prediction
This one could be lively with both sides desperate for the points. Arsenal’s record is not impressive at Old Trafford, with two wins in 11, and the feel-good factor at Old Trafford could carry them to a point.
Man United 1-1 Arsenal
