The Premier League curtain-raiser at Old Trafford sees Manchester United and Arsenal go head-to-head in one of English football’s most storied rivalries. Both sides enter the new season with strengthened squads and renewed ambition, setting up an intriguing opening-day encounter under the spotlight of Sky Sports’ afternoon headline slot.
Man United’s summer has been defined by the arrivals of Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, while Arsenal have added Viktor Gyokeres and Martin Zubimendi to an already strong core. With both managers aiming to start fast, this clash could offer an early glimpse into the title picture.
When & where? / Kick-off details
The match kicks off at 4:30pm BST on Sunday, August 17, 2025, at Old Trafford, Manchester. Coverage will be live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League, with streaming available on Sky Go and Now TV.
Team news
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta may hand Gyokeres his Premier League debut, potentially alongside Kai Havertz in attack. Gabriel Jesus remains unavailable through injury, while Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli are set to occupy the wings. Noni Madueke is easing into the squad following his summer move, and Leandro Trossard is still sidelined with a groin problem.
Martin Zubimendi is expected to partner Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard in midfield, with David Raya in goal behind William Saliba and Gabriel. Ben White should edge out Jurrien Timber for the right-back role, with Riccardo Calafiori likely starting on the left.
For United, Sesko is tipped to start up front, with Mbeumo and Cunha providing support. Andre Onana could return from a hamstring injury, while Joshua Zirkzee is close to fitness. Amorim is expected to field a back three of Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt and Luke Shaw, with Patrick Dorgu and Amad Diallo as wing-backs. Lisandro Martinez and Noussair Mazraoui remain absent.
Tactical analysis
Man United’s 3-4-2-1 shape will rely on wing-backs for both defensive cover and attacking width, particularly against Arsenal’s pace on the flanks. The movement of Cunha and Mbeumo in the half-spaces could unsettle Arsenal’s back line, but leaving gaps in transition could be costly.
Arsenal will look to dominate possession and press high, with Gyokeres providing a direct option up front. The balance between Rice and Zubimendi in midfield should allow Odegaard to operate between the lines, while Saka and Martinelli aim to stretch United’s defensive structure.
Key players
- Benjamin Sesko (Manchester United) – A debutant with the potential to trouble Arsenal’s central defence through pace and movement.
- Viktor Gyokeres (Arsenal) – Brings power, work rate and a clinical edge to the Gunners’ attack.
- Martin Zubimendi (Arsenal) – The midfield metronome linking play and offering defensive balance.
- Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United) – Key to unlocking Arsenal’s disciplined defensive shape.
Predicted lineups
Manchester United (3-4-2-1): Onana; Yoro, De Ligt, Shaw; Diallo, Ugarte, Fernandes, Dorgu; Mbeumo, Cunha; Sesko.
Arsenal (4-3-3): Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Rice, Zubimendi, Odegaard; Saka, Gyokeres, Martinelli.
Conclusion / Prediction
Both sides boast attacking reinforcements and early-season optimism. United’s new front line may take time to find full rhythm, while Arsenal’s stability and defensive record from last season could give them the edge. Expect an open contest with plenty of attacking intent.
Prediction: Manchester United 2-3 Arsenal
