Gameweek 6: Arsenal's Perfect Start Comes to an End in Old Trafford

Arsenal's Dream Start to The Premier League Comes to an End

Arsenal's perfect start, a winning run from opening day to match week five came to a screeching halt at Old Trafford. Previously, Arsenal beat Crystal Palace, Leicester City, Bournemouth, Fulham and Aston Villa. On this rampage, Arsenal scored 13 goals and their new number 9, Gabriel Jesus looked unstoppable. However, a solid defensive performance by the Red Devils combined with sharp counter-attacking football handed Arsenal their first defeat in the 22/23 season losing 3-1.

A quick start from the Gunners saw Martinelli score in the 11th minute, a goal that was ruled out by VAR due to a  foul during the build-up play. A debut goal from new signing Antony commenced the scoring. A smart through ball from Marcus Rashford set him up. 

Bukayo Saka levelled the game in the 60th minute, and the close-range shot silenced the Old Trafford faithful. Only six minutes later Rashford slotted home a cool shot in a one-on-one with Ramsdale. Old Trafford was on their feet in jubilation, and not long after in the 75th minute, Rashford did it one again. Sealing the win for The Red devils.

Manchester United have now won their last four Premier League matches, having lost their first two. This is their longest in the Premier League since winning five in a row between March and April 2021 under Ole Gunnar.

Defensive Dominance

Raphael Varane made more tackles (5) and more clearances (5) than any other player against Arsenal. He also won six of his nine duels. Raphaël Varane and Lisandro Martínez started for Manchester United.

 Manchester United's record when Raphaël Varane and Lisandro Martínez start together:

◉ 4 games

◉ 4 wins

◉ 2 clean sheets

◉ 2 goals conceded

◉ 0 defeats

Dutch left-back Tyrell Malacia was handed his debut for Manchester, the 5'5" workhorse dominated the left flank.

Tyrell Malacia's game by numbers vs. Arsenal:

51 touches

8 ball recoveries 

4 duels won 

3 interceptions 

2 clearances 

2 accurate long balls 

1 tackle

1 cross 

0x dribbled past 

Settled in nicely at Old Trafford. 

Midfield Dexterity

Christian Eriksen for Manchester United against Arsenal: 

◉ Most touches (56) 

◉ Most passes in the final third (16)

◉ Most passes into the box (4)

◉ Most chances created (3) 

And he has his first Premier League assist for the Red Devils. 🅰️

His Midfielding counterpart Scott McTominay in the first half vs. Arsenal:

100% pass accuracy 

100% take-on success

27 touches 

5 passes in the final third 

3 duels won 

2 tackles 

2 clearances 

2x possession won 

1 block 

Impressed so far in the middle of the park. 💪

Ruthless Rashford

Marcus Rashford contributed to all three goals at Old Trafford. His pace and eye for goal complimented Manchester United's counter-attacking approach to the match.

Marcus Rashford's game by numbers vs. Arsenal:

100% chance conversion

100% shot accuracy 

23 touches 

2 shots 

2 touches in opp. box 

2 chances created 

2 goals 

1 assist 

Contributed to all three goals whilst he was on the pitch.

Arsenal's momentum has hit a peg, how will the Gunner react to this unfortunate setback?

Will Manchester United's resurgence continue in the League? Can this Counter-attacking approach be effective throughout their campaign? Will Rashford return to his best self under Erik ten hag? 

Let me know your opinion on these questions in the comments section. 

Let me catch you next time as we talk about the League we can't get enough of. Goodbye