Arguably the biggest game of the opening weekend in the Premier League comes from Manchester, where Manchester United take on Arsenal.
- Date: 17/08/2025
- Kick-off: 4:30pm
- Location: Old Trafford, Manchester
The Red Devils are reaching a critical juncture in the Ruben Amorim era following the disappointment of last season's exploits. Amorim comes into this season off the back of a 15th-place finish and a defeat in the Europa League final, and while he still retains the backing of the club and much of the fan base, patience will likely wear thin if tangible improvements are not observed early on.
United have strengthened notably in the transfer window, with Brian Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Benjamin Sesko all joining the club as part of big-money deals. There are still concerns about the midfield, with the team short of top-quality ball progressors, but it seems like the club aren't done yet as far as recruitment is concerned.
An opening weekend fixture against Arsenal is both a blessing and a curse as far as a team in Man United's position are concerned. With patience waning and scepticism high, a defeat could set a bad tone early in the season, which may turn out to be critical. Conversely, a win over such a formidable opponent could galvanise the team and the fans from the get-go.
In a different (but also similar) way to Amorim, Mikel Arteta is also reaching a crucial point in his Arsenal tenure, with the Spaniard under significant pressure to deliver a major trophy. Arteta has no doubt been a net success at Arsenal, but his stint at the club has largely been characterised by the team falling short of major honours.
Arteta has been backed handsomely in the transfer window, with Martin Zubimendi, Viktor Gyokeres, Noni Madueke, and Cristhian Mosquera all joining the club. Some fans still believe that another marquee forward signing was (and still is) due, and the club have been linked to Eberechi Eze throughout the summer, but for now, things seem quiet on that front.
The title race should be a competitive one this year and with Liverpool having strengthened so significantly, Arsenal will want to fly out of the blocks quickly. A trip to Old Trafford is never easy, but they'll back themselves to take advantage of a team under pressure.
