Arsenal Set to Unleash New Signings Gyokeres and Zubimendi Against Man Utd in Blockbuster Premier League Clash
Arsenal will kick off their campaign in a challenging environment this Sunday as they face fierce rivals Manchester United in their Premier League season opener.
The North London club is determined to finally make the jump from second place to title winners this term after three consecutive runner-up finishes in the Premier League, with their journey toward glory starting at one of their most difficult destinations: Old Trafford.
Mikel Arteta has built an outstanding team over the last six years and has strengthened it even more during this summer's recruitment period, bringing in top-tier talent and essential squad depth before a crucial season for both him and his squad.
Here's the starting formation he might choose for the opening match.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs. Man Utd (4-3-3)
GK: David Raya—While Kepa Arrizabalaga has joined as Arsenal's backup goalkeeper, there's no question about Raya's place in the first team. The 29-year-old was recently shortlisted for the 2025 Yashin Trophy.
RB: Jurriën Timber—Timber made his comeback from injury during Arsenal's last two pre-season matches against Spanish teams, replacing Ben White at right-back. Arteta will be thrilled to have the Dutch defender available for the Old Trafford encounter.
CB: William Saliba—Arsenal's elegant center-back will face off against a completely revamped United attack on Sunday, directly confronting Benjamin Šeško in the Slovenian's first appearance. The French defender consistently delivers regardless of the opponent or venue.
CB: Gabriel—Arsenal have reintegrated Gabriel into their setup this summer after he was sidelined for the last two months of the previous campaign due to injury. He partners with center-back colleague Saliba to form a solid defensive foundation.
LB: Myles Lewis-Skelly—Lewis-Skelly will need to handle Bryan Mbeumo and the attacking runs of United's right wing-back at Old Trafford, but the 2025 Kopa Trophy candidate rarely appears fazed in high-pressure situations.
CM: Martin Ødegaard—Despite recent criticism directed at Arsenal's captain, Arteta's confidence in the Norwegian midfielder remains unwavering. He continues to be a vital creative outlet for the Gunners, who struggle significantly in his absence.
CM: Martín Zubimendi—While there were some doubts about Zubimendi's fitness for Sunday, Arteta has announced the midfielder is prepared to make his Premier League bow. He's already shown promise during preseason in a defensive midfield capacity.
CM: Declan Rice—Ballon d'Or contender Rice has found the net twice and provided one assist in five encounters with United since his Arsenal move, and Zubimendi's steady presence in the defensive midfield role should enable the English player to make forward runs frequently this Sunday.
RW: Bukayo Saka—Noni Madueke's signing will provide Saka with more rotation opportunities this season, but the England star's Premier League playing time won't be reduced. He continues to be Arsenal's primary offensive weapon.
ST: Viktor Gyökeres—Gyökeres rejected United and former coach Ruben Amorim to sign with Arsenal this summer, and he'll be looking to inflict further damage on the Red Devils during his Premier League introduction.
LW: Gabriel Martinelli—While some have suggested Arsenal should upgrade Martinelli with a world-class alternative—Rodrygo has been mentioned in transfer speculation—the Brazilian stays as Arteta's preferred left-wing option despite external pressure.
