Arsenal edge in opener ahead of United

Arsenal travel to Manchester United for the season opener, with United's big summer spend under scrutiny and questions about balance.

Arsenal holds edge as United face season opener at Old Trafford

Manchester United begin the season by hosting Arsenal at Old Trafford. Lee Dixon argues that only one Manchester United player would make Arsenal’s starting XI, underscoring doubts about United’s balance despite spending more than £200 million this summer on Sesko, Mbeumo and Cunha. United finished 15th last season and their Europa League final loss sealed a bleak campaign with no European football for 2025/26. The club responded by courting an attacking overhaul to boost a 44-goal league tally from the previous campaign.

Arsenal enter the match with a stronger recent track record, finishing second for the third straight season in 2024/25 and bolstering depth with Gyokeres, Madueke, Zubimendi, Norgaard, Mosquera and Arrizabalaga. Dixon suggests Arteta will feel more comfortable with the balance of his squad, while United face questions about how the new forwards fit into a system that must also address a fragile defensive spine.

The early tone of the season battle centers on balance and identity. United have spent big to reset their forward line, yet the transfer strategy appears to rely on premium attackers rather than a rebuilt back line. The risk is clear: talent up front may not compensate for defensive gaps or midfield cohesion. Bruno Fernandes remains a central figure for United, but leadership without a sturdier supporting cast could leave them exposed against a well-balanced Arsenal unit. For Arsenal, the challenge is to translate added depth into consistent performance, especially when up against a team eager to prove the money invested this summer was worth more than the headlines. The opener will test whether managerial plans can translate into results under immediate pressure.

Highlights

The coming weeks will show if big spending translates into on-field stability.