Two of the great Premier League rivals clash at Old Trafford on Thursday, as Manchester United host Arsenal. Both soccer sides would like to be nearer to the top of the league than they currently are, but for both a finish in the Champions League places will likely highlight a good season this year.
Manchester United vs Arsenal Odds
| Manchester United | +100 |
| Draw | +272 |
| Arsenal | +275 |
| Over 2.5 Goals | -126 |
| Under 2.5 Goals | +106 |
Manchester United vs Arsenal Preview
Red Devils Looking Resurgent Post Solskjaer
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s spell as Manchester United manager was brought to an end following the disastrous 4-1 defeat against Watford a couple of weeks ago. Since then, the Red Devils have gone two without a defeat, with those positive results both coming in difficult looking games on the road. Michael Carrick has taken charge of the team throughout the run, but this will likely be his final game in charge of the club, before Ralf Rangnick takes over for the game against Crystal Palace on Sunday. United looked much better defensively on Sunday at Stamford Bridge, as they didn’t allow Chelsea many chances.
Jadon Sancho’s form has also stepped up since the departure of Solskjaer, as he has now scored two in two for United. To make matters better for United, they have a positive record against teams on a Thursday night in the Premier League. The Red Devils have lost just twice from the 14 Premier League fixtures played on Thursday, with those defeats coming against Liverpool last season, and Middlesbrough in 2002.
Gunners Hoping For Second Straight Win
Arsenal come into this fixture above Manchester United in the Premier League standings, and could potentially move into the top four with a win this week. Their recent form has been very good, as they have won four times in their last five games. Their only defeat during this run was a 4-0 hammering at Liverpool, which was just their fourth defeat of the season, and their first since losing the opening three games of the season.
The Gunners warmed up for this fixture at Old Trafford with a comfortable 2-0 success at the Emirates against the struggling Newcastle United. Both goals for the Gunners were scored in the second half, with Bukayo Sako opening the scoring and Gabriel Martinelli smartly finishing to wrap up the points with just under half an hour remaining.
Recent Meetings
Arsenal haven’t won back to back games at Old Trafford since 1979, but United haven’t won against the Gunners in the last six meetings. The Gunners have also looked solid defensively in recent seasons, as they have kept clean sheets in each of the last three meetings between the sides.
Manchester United vs Arsenal Pick
Arsenal and United match up very evenly this season, and it will be fascinating to see which of the sides can finish in the top four this season. For this game, we would be taking a chance on the over 2.5 selection, and both sides look more than capable of conceding and scoring.
