Sunday takes United to the Emirates for an explosive FA Cup showdown against old enemies Arsenal.
A week ago watching United was pure torture – three straight defeats had morale at rock bottom.
But everything changed against Liverpool. That performance wasn’t just good, it was a reminder of what this team can do when they show up. Arsenal, meanwhile, have been stumbling through their own mini-crisis of confidence. Make no mistake about it – if that same United turns up on tomorrow, Arsenal might have a real fight on their hands.
And Arsenal away in the FA Cup? History suggests that’s precisely when United produce something extraordinary against the odds. Arsenal fans of a certain vintage probably still get chills about Viera’s misplaced pass all those years ago. If you know you know…
Manchester United Team News
The big news for United is that Altay Bayindir will start between the sticks, as confirmed by Ruben Amorim, explaining:
I don’t rotate because I want to rotate. I’m trying to find the best solutions to win the game. I put the guys in who are more fresh to cope with the demands of the game. The goalkeeper position is different, so it’s a good question. Altay will play.
Aside from that, it’s mostly as-you-were for United, with the exception that Marcus Rashford is available for selection again after illness. Whether he makes the squad is anyone’s guess though.
Victor Lindelof, Mason Mount and Luke Shaw remain on the sidelines with injuries.
Arsenal Team News
The Gunners are dealing with several key absences, most notably star winger Bukayo Saka who’s sidelined with a thigh problem.
They’ve also lost exciting prospect Ethan Nwaneri, who picked up an injury right after scoring in the 1-1 draw with Brighton. He joins defenders Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu on the treatment table. One bit of good news for Arsenal is that Raheem Sterling is back available after recovering from illness.
Predicted XI
Bayindir;
Yoro, Maguire, Martinez;
Dalot, Ugarte, Mainoo, Mazraoui;
Amad, Fernandes;
Hojlund.
Form Guide
Manchester United All Competitions Form:
L L L L D
Arsenal All Competitions Form:
W W W D L
Prediction
Just when everyone wrote us off, United roared back to life against Liverpool.
That’s the template for Sunday. Match that intensity and Arsenal are there for the taking. Amorim was crystal clear – thrilled with the win, but frustrated we haven’t hit those heights more often. You can bet he’s drilled that message home all week.
The preparation time’s been perfect. Now we just need that same fire and maybe a slice of cup magic. After all, form and luck are often equal parts of the equation on FA Cup day.
Predicted score: Arsenal 2-3 Manchester United