Arsenal vs Manchester United prediction, head-to-head and probable lineups - 25 January 2026
One of the key fixtures of Matchweek 23 in the English Premier League will take place this Sunday at the Emirates Stadium in London, where Arsenal host Manchester United. Here’s my pick for the outcome of this clash, factoring in the Gunners’ impressive form and the visitors’ inconsistent defense.
Match preview
Mikel Arteta continues to steer Arsenal confidently toward the title – despite a recent stumble against Nottingham Forest, the Londoners remain comfortably atop the table. Their 3-1 Champions League victory over Inter in Milan was yet another testament to the team’s power and maturity, especially in attack. At the Emirates, Arsenal are unbeaten in 16 straight matches across all competitions, winning 14 of them.
The return of Hincapié and Calafiori bolsters the defense, while Arteta faces a welcome selection headache up front – choosing between Gabriel Jesus and Gyökeres. Given the squad’s consistency and versatility, Arsenal look like a real machine, especially when up against teams that have struggled away from home this season. United fit that bill perfectly.
Michael Carrick’s appointment has restored United’s confidence – a sensational 2-0 derby win over Man City breathed new life into the squad. The Red Devils are back in the top-four hunt and are showing real character, even through a tough stretch. United have scored in 11 consecutive matches, including nine straight on the road. But defensive issues persist: they’ve conceded at least once in every away match this season.
Carrick is unlikely to tinker with his winning lineup, though Mazraoui’s return gives him more options at the back. The key will be maintaining balance in midfield, where the experienced Casemiro and creative Fernandes will play pivotal roles. However, against Arsenal’s relentless pressing and wing power, it will be tough to sustain the tempo for the full 90 minutes.
Probable lineups
- Arsenal: Raya, Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapié, Ødegaard, Zubimendi, Rice, Saka, Gyökeres, Trossard
- Manchester United: Lammens, Dalot, Maguire, Martínez, Shaw, Mainoo, Casemiro, Diallo, Fernandes, Dorgu, Mbeumo
Match facts and head-to-head
- Arsenal have won five of their last six Premier League meetings with United.
- United have not kept a single clean sheet away from home this season.
- Arsenal have not conceded more than one goal in any home league game this season.
Prediction
Manchester United are riding a wave of emotion, but a trip to the Emirates is a whole new level of challenge. Arsenal are nearly flawless at home, and Arteta’s men are back in peak form after their Champions League heroics. Even with United’s fighting spirit, the edge in class, form, and tactics is firmly with the hosts. Back the Gunners to win to nil.
