How the Red Devils can be beat Arsenal this weekend…
Arsenal are the bookies’ favourites to beat Manchester United, but a strong case can be made for the Red Devils’ chances too.
We’ve made the case for an Arsenal win, but here’s a different take on the game.
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5) Angel di Maria against Calum Chambers
Di Maria picked up a knock in Argentina’s loss against Portugal, but should be fit to play on Saturday. He’s been in exceptional form for United since signing in August, and will relish taking on Chambers.
The young Gunner struggled horribly against the pace of Jefferson Montero last week, and was beaten repeatedly as the game went on.
The Englishman is a centre-back really, and it shows when he faces off against tricky wingers. Di Maria is the trickiest, and the quickest, of the lot.
4) Arsenal’s Defence
Chambers at right back is just the beginning of Arsenal’s defensive problems. With Laurent Koscielny still out, Nacho Monreal will continue at centre-back. He’s been caught out repeatedly, especially in the collapse against Anderlecht.
The North Londoners should be relying on Per Mertesacker, but the defender is also struggling for form, and has admitted that he is lacking motivation following the World Cup.
3) Manchester United’s Firepower
In Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie United have the firepower to target Monreal directly and effectively.
While they are suffering with defensive injuries, Man United’s depth up front means they can shrug off the loss of Radamel Falcao and still put out a world class strike force against the shaky Arsenal back line.
Even young James Wilson looks a threat coming off the bench.
2) Van Persie’s Record
Just as Danny Welbeck is a good bet to score for the Gunners, van Persie looks certain to net against his former club.
The Dutchman has already scored in three games against Arsene Wenger’s men since his move, and given the state of their defence, looks set to get another.
1) Arsenal’s Mental Weakness
The North London side have a dreadful record against the top four – they are without a win in 15 games against teams which were in the previous season’s top four.
Even with the Red Devils looking more vulnerable than ever before, the mental block that prevents them playing to their potential against top sides will strike them down again, and gives United a great opportunity for a win that can be a turning point.