Manchester United made it four consecutive Premier League wins, beating Arsenal 3-1 at Old Trafford. A brace from Marcus Rashford and a debut goal for new signing Antony condemned Arsenal to their first defeat of the season. Arsenal did get a goal back in the second half through Bukayo Saka, however the Gunners 100% record in the league came to an end at the Theatre of Dreams.
Manchester United vs Arsenal Summary
Erik ten Hag made one change to the side, which beat Leicester on Thursday, with Antony coming in for Elanga. Many fans were surprised by the decision, as the winger had only been training for two days. United supporters also thought Casemiro would be given his first start, however McTominay kept his place.
The Red Devils were on top in the first 20 minutes and were in total control of proceedings. The Reds kept possession well and were knocking the ball around nicely. Christian Eriksen, Diogo Dalot and Jadon Sancho saw plenty of the ball in the early exchanges and were United’s biggest threats.
The first chance of the game fell to Eriksen. Following some terrific work from Antony, Dalot put in a pinpoint cross into the box. Eriksen on his weaker left foot was unable to volley home from close range to give his side the lead.
There was a let off for United when the visitors had a goal disallowed. Martin Ødegaard was adjudged to foul Eriksen in the build up of Martineli’s goal. A let off for Ten Hag’s men.
The home side took the lead through their new £85m winger. Sancho found Rashford, who sent it through to Antony. The Brazilian made no mistakes one on one and the Reds were in front.
Second Half
After the goal, Arsenal grew into the contest and became more threatening. David de Gea made a smart save to deny Martinelli in the first half, but the Spaniard could do nothing to prevent Saka from equalising. Raphael Varane made an uncharacteristic error and lost possession, which gave Arsenal this counter-attacking opportunity.
Arteta’s men grew in confidence, while United became more vulnerable. Against the run of play the Red Devils took the lead for the second time in the match. Bruno Fernandes found Rashford with a sensational pass and the Englishman made it 2-1.
Less than 10 minutes later and Rashford got himself on the scoresheet yet again. Eriksen made a great run and found himself through on goal. Unselfishly, he gave the ball to Rashford, who got his brace and secured the three points.
The Reds had numerous chances to extend their lead, but just couldn’t pick out Cristiano Ronaldo who made some terrific runs. The full time whistle went and Old Trafford erupted.
Manchester United vs Arsenal Player Ratings
David de Gea 7/10
Made a great save to deny Martineli and could do nothing to prevent Saka from equalising. Rarely tested despite some intense pressure from the visitors. A decent performance.
Diogo Dalot 7/10
Yet another tidy and controlled display. Intense in his pressing and always got his head up when on the ball. Martineli had the better of him at times in the first half, but the fullback was much better in the second period. Promising stuff from the Portuguese international.
Raphael Varane 6/10
Another good performance from the Frenchman. Jesus was a tough opponent to face and the Frenchman fared well. Made an error that lead to the Arsenal equaliser.
Lisandro Martinez 6/10
Jesus got the better of him at times, which led to some rash decision throughout the contest. Played well overall and his extensive passing range helped alleviate pressure.
Tyrell Malacia 5/10
Looked vulnerable at times against Saka, who got the better of him on too many occasions. Had far too many lapses of concentration in the first half, but improved in the second half where he was more switched on.
Scott McTominay 8/10
A terrific performance. Won his duels in the middle of the park and broke the lines with some great passes into the forwards. Kept his composure and his positioning throughout was immaculate. Much better from the Scotsman.
Christian Eriksen 8/10
Involved in all three goals. His passing and control in tight areas was the difference between the two sides. Perhaps fortunate with the VAR decision in the first half, but made up for it with a spectacular performance.
Bruno Fernandes 8/10
Like Eriksen, he was involved in all three goals. Produced a world class pass for Rashford at a significant point in the match. Led by example and set the tone for the rest of the team.
Antony 7/10
A well-taken goal on his debut. Confident and sprung fear into the Arsenal fullbacks when he got the ball. Quiet after his goal and taken off before the hour. Showed glimpses of his full potential in a red shirt.
Jadon Sancho 6/10
A quiet afternoon from the winger. Looked threatening in the opening 20 minutes but became anonymous at times. Should have tested White more as the defender looked uncomfortable at fullback. Needs to produce a more sustained performance.
Marcus Rashford 9/10
A typical Rashford display. Held the ball up well and set up Antony in the first half. Looked dangerous when put in the left channel where he got his two goals from. A man of the match display from the Mancunian.
Subs
Cristiano Ronaldo 7/10
Lifted the team and was unlucky to not get on the scoresheet. An impactful appearance from the bench.
Fred 6/10
A decent cameo, but should of played a better ball for Ronaldo.
Casemiro 6/10
Came on very late to secure the win. Could start in midweek.
Harry Maguire 5/10
Booked for a tactical foul.
Manager Erik ten Hag 7/10
Superb team selection once again. Starting Antony and McTominay paid off. Should be worried about the way Arsenal controlled moments in the game. Early substutions worked a treat and the change in shape to nullify Arsenal’s attack was extremely effective.
