Manchester United face Arsenal in season opener

Manchester United head into the 2025 26 season with limited guaranteed starters ahead of the Arsenal game.

Two guaranteed starters emerge for Arsenal clash

Manchester United head into the 2025/26 season with more questions than certainty. Their opening match against Arsenal at Old Trafford on Sunday will test a squad that has not fixed its starting XI after five pre season games. Only Bruno Fernandes and Amad have started all five friendlies, leaving manager Ruben Amorim with a real selection headache.

Amad is shaping a role at right wing back, a choice born from his attacking qualities and work rate. Fernandes has been used in both a No 10 and a deeper role, while Cunha and Mbeumo cost United a combined 127.5 million and are expected to operate mainly as attacking midfielders. Leny Yoro and Cunha are highlighted as likely starters alongside Fernandes and Amad, who could provide the balance United want against Arsenal’s low blocks.

The emphasis on versatility signals a shift that could define United’s season. Amorim wants players to fight for elevation in training, and that competition might push a more dynamic XI, but it also risks instability if key pieces are not settled early.

The transfer spend adds pressure. Cunha and Mbeumo bring attacking options, yet the team still needs a reliable midfield anchor. If Fernandes remains the constant, the question becomes whether the club can add a midfield organizer before the deadline without destabilizing existing plans.

Highlights

The opening weekend will reveal how far United have planned for a flexible start to the season