Manchester United vs. Arsenal: EPL Preview and Prediction
The classic matchup of Manchester United and Arsenal may as well be a derby, and a perfect way to start the Premier League season for English football fanatics. It doesn’t get much better than this, as the opening weekend of the 2025-26 English Premier League features two of the biggest clubs duking it out for their first three points of the season.
Both sides introduce fresh signings and will be looking to make a statement to start the campaign. With a 1-1 draw showcased in their most recent meeting, this match will be one for the books.
Arsenal is a sizeable favourite to win on the EPL odds.
Manchester United vs. Arsenal EPL Odds and Betting Trends
The two sides met three times during the 2024-25 calendar year, and the results could not have been more even. Their first meeting in the Premier League concluded with a 2-0 victory for Arsenal in December. But, Manchester United would chip away at the Gunners’ confidence after securing a 5-3 win in penalty kicks during the FA Cup third round in January.
For their final 2024-25 Premier League clash, the game ended in a 1-1 draw. Although Arsenal is the stronger team, they managed just one win in three games against the Red Devils.
Arsenal
Last season, Arsenal were very close to tasting the trophy, something they hadn’t experienced since the 2003-04 “Invincibles” squad. They finished in second place with 74 points and a 20-14-4 record, marking their third second-place finish in as many years. They’ve looked relatively solid in their last five matches of club friendlies leading up to the season, scoring nine goals and winning the Emirates Cup Final 3-0 against Athletic Club in their most recent match on August 9.
With the new additions of Noni Madueke from Chelsea, Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting CP, and Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, the Gunners will surely be able to challenge the Red Devils in pursuit of their first EPL trophy in over 20 years.
Manchester United
Manchester United’s previous 2024-25 season may have been their worst ever performance since winning the title last in 2012, as they finished in 15th place, three spots above relegation, with 42 points and an 11-9-18 losing record. Although Ruben Amorim was given a big leash in his opening season, he’ll need to turn things around fast. In their last five club friendlies leading up to the season opener, they’ve scored nine goals, and the side will have their 1-0 Europa League final loss to Tottenham fresh on their minds as they enter the season.
Several new players have come in through the transfer window, including Matheus Cunha from Wolves, Bryan Mbeumbo from Brentford, and Benjamin Šeško from RB Leipzig. Considering the club spent nearly €215 million on new acquisitions, they’ll have to make a difference in their first home game of the season.
EPL Prediction: Who Will Win Manchester United vs. Arsenal?
The first game of the season is a tough one to predict, especially with brand new signings to each team, but as it stands, Arsenal is my bet, but I expect this game to be a cagey affair.
Neither team has a standout goalscorer, with Kai Havertz leading Arsenal with nine total last season, and Bruno Fernandes leading United with eight. The odds show this as well, as Gyökeres has the shortest odds to find the back of the net at +125. In my eyes, it’s more likely that the game will end in a 1-1 draw at +250, especially knowing the history between the two sides, and how rusty both teams can be for their season opener.
