The 2025/26 Premier League season kicks off this weekend with a blockbuster clash in store at Old Trafford, as Manchester United host Arsenal on Sunday. Both teams have undergone significant changes during the summer, setting the stage for a huge encounter that could shape their early-season momentum. With new signings, tactical shifts, and high stakes, this opening fixture promises to be a thrilling battle between two English football giants.
Under manager Rúben Amorim, Manchester United are looking to rebound from a disappointing 15th-place finish in the 2024/25 season. The Red Devils have bolstered their squad with key signings, including Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Diego Leon, and Slovenian striker Benjamin Šeško, who could make his debut in front of the Old Trafford faithful. However, injury concerns linger: goalkeeper Andre Onana is pushing to return from a hamstring issue but may be replaced by Altay Bayindir if not fully fit. Lisandro Martínez is unlikely to feature due to his ongoing ACL recovery, while Joshua Zirkzee’s availability remains uncertain after missing pre-season action. Amorim is expected to deploy a 3-4-2-1 formation, with Bruno Fernandes orchestrating play behind a revitalised attacking unit.
Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, coming off three consecutive second-place finishes, are determined to finally claim the Premier League title. The Gunners have made significant moves in the transfer market, most notably signing prolific striker Viktor Gyökeres, who previously worked under Amorim at Sporting CP. Other additions include Martin Zubimendi, Noni Madueke, and Kepa Arrizabalaga, adding depth and dynamism. Arsenal are relatively injury-free, though Gabriel Jesus (ACL) is ruled out. Arteta is likely to stick with his trusted 4-3-3, leaning on the creativity of Martin Ødegaard and the wing pairing of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli.
Two new faces leading the line for iconic clubs ⚡️
— Premier League (@premierleague) August 10, 2025
Man Utd v Arsenal, unmissable on the opening weekend 🍿 pic.twitter.com/YIMsFNBvFL
Team News
Manchester United
- Ruben Amorim confirmed Benjamin Sesko is ready to start.
- Noussair Mazraoui and Lisandro Martinez are confirmed out.
- Andre Onana and Joshua Zirkzee have recovered from injuries.
Arsenal
- Arteta confirmed Leandro Trossard should be fit for the weekend.
- Martin Zubimendi is fit and available despite rumours he had missed training.
- Viktor Gyokeres will likely lead the line in his Premier League debut.
Predicted Lineups
Manchester United
Onana; Yoro, De Ligt, Shaw; Amad, Ugarte, Bruno, Dorgu; Mbeumo, Cunha, Sesko
Arsenal
Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Odegaard, Martinelli; Gyokeres
