Neither of the two sides has been convincing so far this season, with Arsenal placed sixth on the log with 17 points and United a point and a rung below, after an equal number of 11 games.
That makes the Saturday game one worth winning for either side, as they each launch an early assault on the gap so far created by run-away log leaders Chelsea, who lie on 29 points.
United, back on the path of resurgence of late, come from the back of a 1-0 home over lowly Crystal Palace, while the Gunners are still smarting from a 2-1 away loss at Swansea City. Those two results came before last weekend’s international break and a lot could have changed for the two sides, coached by managers that have so far failed to impress in the league.
United will be under more pressure to win the game, as they seek to maintain their dominance over their London rivals, but that does not relegate Arsene Wenger’s side to any pushovers, as they also have a pride of their own to get back on track. If that does not provide the ingredients of a thriller, then nothing else will.
Unbeaten Chelsea have what on paper looks like an easy assignment against West Bromwich Albion, but will go to the tie not unmindful of a side that has usually burst their bubble when it looked like swelling further. West Brom are a strong side and could be the first team to beat Jose Mourinho’s boys this season.
Defending champions Manchester City, coming off a 2-2 away draw with Queens Park Rangers, host Swansea, while Liverpool seek redemption with an away game at Crystal Palace on Sunday.
Other Fixtures: Saturday: Stoke City vs Burnley; Newcastle United vs Queens Park Rangers; Everton vs West Ham United; Leicester City vs Sunderland
Sunday: Hull City vs Tottenham Hotspur
Monday: Aston Villa vs Sounthampton
Post published in: Football