Arsenal vs Manchester United Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, Sunday, 25 January

Arsenal will face Manchester United in a highly anticipated Premier League clash this Sunday, 25 January. The match will take place at the Emirates Stadium, a venue that has witnessed many memorable encounters between these two English football giants. This fixture is always a highlight of the Premier League calendar, and with both teams vying for crucial points, it promises to be an intriguing contest.

Arsenal, playing at home, will be looking to use their familiar surroundings to gain an advantage over Manchester United. Meanwhile, Manchester United will aim to upset the hosts and secure a vital away victory. Both teams have a rich history and a fierce rivalry, making this match one to watch for fans and bettors alike. The outcome could have significant implications for their respective positions in the league table.

Arsenal vs Manchester United Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Manchester United to win	5.99

Considering the statistics and recent form, our recommended betting tip is a Manchester United win. Despite Arsenal’s strong home record, Manchester United’s tactical discipline and efficiency in big matches make them a viable pick for this encounter.

• Manchester United often excel in high-profile games, leveraging their tactical discipline and counterattacking prowess.
• Historical data shows that United have the capability to win at the Emirates, adding confidence to this prediction.
• Arsenal, despite their solid home form, have shown defensive vulnerabilities that a tactically astute team like United can exploit.

Betting Odds

Arsenal enter their home ground at the Emirates Stadium as favourites, with betting odds of 1.55. Manchester United, however, are considered the underdogs at 5.99, but their potential to surprise should not be underestimated, especially given their historic rivalry.

Betting Tip	Odds
Arsenal to win	1.55
Draw	4.12
Manchester United to win	5.99

The draw is priced at 4.12, which may tempt those expecting a tightly contested match. With both teams known for their attacking prowess, betting on over 2.5 goals or both teams to score could be wise choices for punters.

Arsenal Analysis & Past Performance

Arsenal have been showing resilient form recently, remaining unbeaten in their last five matches, with three wins and two draws. Their last outing, a 3-1 victory against Inter Milan in the Champions League, highlights their attacking prowess, as they managed to score three goals away from home despite having equal possession (50%).

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Inter Milan	Arsenal	1 – 3 (Win)	Champions League	20 Jan 2026
Nottingham Forest	Arsenal	0 – 0 (Draw)	Premier League	17 Jan 2026
Chelsea	Arsenal	2 – 3 (Win)	Carabao Cup	14 Jan 2026
Portsmouth	Arsenal	1 – 4 (Win)	FA Cup	11 Jan 2026
Arsenal	Liverpool	0 – 0 (Draw)	Premier League	8 Jan 2026

Recent Form:

• WDWWD

In their last five games, Arsenal have averaged 2.00 goals per match, scoring a total of 10 goals while conceding only 4, leading to two clean sheets. Their defensive solidity is further underscored by conceding less than a goal per game on average (0.80). At home, they continue to be formidable, with a win ratio of 80%, having won four out of their last five home fixtures, and maintaining an undefeated home streak in the league. Arsenal sit at the top of the league table with 50 points, reflecting their consistent performance throughout the season.

Arsenal Suspensions & Injuries

Arsenal approach the match against Manchester United with some notable absentees due to injuries. Max Dowman is sidelined with an ankle injury, expected to return by mid-February, while Riccardo Calafiori and Piero Hincapié are both doubtful with muscle and hamstring issues, respectively. Their absence may not affect the starting line-up directly, but it does limit Mikel Arteta’s options for squad rotation and depth, particularly in defence.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Max Dowman	Ankle injury	Mid February 2026
Riccardo Calafiori	Muscle injury	Doubtful
Piero Hincapié	Hamstring injury	Doubtful

The absence of these players means Arsenal will have to rely heavily on their starting eleven to maintain defensive solidity and midfield creativity. Ben White and William Saliba will be crucial in defence, supported by Gabriel and Jurrien Timber, as Arsenal look to keep a clean sheet against a potent Manchester United attack.

With no suspensions to contend with, Arsenal’s primary tactical adjustment will revolve around managing fitness levels, given the limited depth due to injuries. This could potentially impact their ability to press high throughout the match, which might encourage a slightly more conservative approach, focusing on structured defence and quick counter-attacks.

In terms of betting implications, Arsenal’s limited depth due to these injuries could suggest a closer contest than usual, despite playing at home. Bettors might consider the potential for a tightly contested match, with limited goal-scoring opportunities if Arsenal adopt a more cautious strategy.

Arsenal Key Players

Arsenal’s top scorer Viktor Gyökeres, with 5 goals this season, is set to lead the line against Manchester United. Known for his physical presence and keen eye for goal, Gyökeres will be pivotal in breaking down the opposition’s defence. His ability to hold up play and link with teammates like Gabriel Martinelli and Noni Madueke could be decisive in Arsenal’s attacking strategy.

In midfield, Martin Ødegaard continues to be Arsenal’s creative engine. His vision and precise passing are crucial in unlocking defences and setting the tempo of the game. Alongside him, Declan Rice provides a robust defensive shield while also contributing to the transition from defence to attack. Their partnership is essential in maintaining control in the middle of the park.

Defensively, the presence of William Saliba and Gabriel in central defence gives Arsenal a solid backbone. Saliba’s reading of the game and Gabriel’s physicality are key strengths that could thwart Manchester United’s attacking threats.

Expected line-up for Arsenal

• Goalkeeper: David Raya
• Defence: Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel, Jurrien Timber
• Midfield: Martin Ødegaard, Martin Zubimendi, Declan Rice
• Forward: Noni Madueke, Viktor Gyökeres, Gabriel Martinelli

Arsenal Tactics and Formation

Arsenal Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Viktor Gyökeres
• Midfield Pivot: Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi
• Defensive Strength: Two clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: High pressing with quick ball recovery and transitions.

Arsenal’s 4-3-3 formation, under Mikel Arteta’s guidance, emphasises fluidity and high pressing. The midfield trio of Martin Ødegaard, Declan Rice, and Martin Zubimendi provides both defensive cover and creative support. Rice’s defensive acumen allows Zubimendi to distribute the ball effectively, while Ødegaard’s vision is key in linking play to the forwards.

Defensively, the backline of Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel, and Jurrien Timber has been formidable, contributing to the team’s two clean sheets in recent matches. David Raya in goal has also been pivotal, with command over his area enhancing Arsenal’s defensive solidity.

Offensively, Arsenal leverage the pace and skill of Noni Madueke and Gabriel Martinelli on the wings, with Viktor Gyökeres spearheading the attack. Gyökeres’ presence in the box has been crucial, as he leads the team with five goals, offering a consistent threat in front of goal.

Manchester United Analysis & Past Performance

Manchester United’s recent form has been somewhat inconsistent, with only one victory in their last five matches across all competitions. They recently secured a 2-0 win against Manchester City, which was a much-needed confidence boost after a series of draws against Burnley (2-2), Leeds (1-1), and Wolverhampton (1-1), and a loss to Brighton (1-2) in the FA Cup.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Manchester United	Manchester City	2 – 0 (Win)	Premier League	17 Jan 2026
Manchester United	Brighton	1 – 2 (Loss)	FA Cup	11 Jan 2026
Burnley	Manchester United	2 – 2 (Draw)	Premier League	7 Jan 2026
Leeds	Manchester United	1 – 1 (Draw)	Premier League	4 Jan 2026
Manchester United	Wolverhampton	1 – 1 (Draw)	Premier League	30 Dec 2025

Recent Form:

• WLDDD

United’s attack has managed to score in all of their last five games, averaging 1.40 goals per match, highlighting their offensive capability. However, their defence has shown vulnerabilities, conceding an average of 1.20 goals per game and keeping just one clean sheet. Away from home, they have a win ratio of 40%, showing a capacity to secure points on the road, though they’ve also drawn twice and lost once in their last five away fixtures.

Manchester United Suspensions & Injuries

Manchester United face a significant challenge with Matthijs de Ligt’s back injury, casting doubt over his availability. His absence could impact defensive solidity, as de Ligt’s aerial presence and leadership are crucial. Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martínez will likely continue to pair up in central defence, but the lack of de Ligt may necessitate tactical adjustments, potentially affecting their defensive depth against a potent Arsenal attack.

Joshua Zirkzee’s injury further limits options in attack, though his absence is less impactful given the current form of Bryan Mbeumo, who is expected to lead the line. Without Zirkzee, Manchester United may look to Amad and Bruno Fernandes for increased offensive creativity and goal-scoring opportunities.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Matthijs de Ligt	Back injury	Doubtful

On the tactical front, Michael Carrick might adjust the midfield dynamics to compensate for these absences. Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo are expected to provide a solid foundation, allowing Fernandes more freedom to influence the game in the final third. The unavailability of key players like de Ligt could also have implications on match outcomes, potentially influencing betting markets, with Arsenal possibly seen as more favourable given United’s defensive vulnerabilities.

Manchester United Key Players

Leading Manchester United’s attack is Bryan Mbeumo, the top scorer with 7 goals. Mbeumo’s sharp finishing and ability to exploit space behind defences make him a constant threat. His presence at the forefront of United’s attack provides a focal point, and his knack for finding the back of the net could be crucial against Arsenal.

Bruno Fernandes remains a key playmaker in midfield, orchestrating play with his vision and passing ability. Fernandes’ role in linking the midfield to Mbeumo up front will be vital. Alongside him, Manuel Ugarte provides a solid defensive presence, ensuring balance in midfield. In defence, Lisandro Martínez’s aggressive style complements Harry Maguire’s aerial prowess, forming a resilient barrier in front of Senne Lammens.

• Goalkeeper: Senne Lammens
• Defenders: Diogo Dalot, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martínez, Luke Shaw
• Midfielders: Manuel Ugarte, Kobbie Mainoo, Amad, Bruno Fernandes, Patrick Dorgu
• Forward: Bryan Mbeumo

Expected line-up for Manchester United

Manchester United Tactics and Formation

Manchester United Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Bryan Mbeumo
• Midfield Pivot: Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo
• Defensive Strength: Managed two clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on quick transitions and high pressing

Manchester United will likely continue with their 4-2-3-1 formation, which provides a balanced approach between defence and attack. The midfield pairing of Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo is crucial, offering both defensive cover and facilitating the transition from defence to attack. Bruno Fernandes, in the attacking midfield role, will be pivotal in unlocking Arsenal’s defence with his creativity and passing range.

Defensively, United’s back four, consisting of Diogo Dalot, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martínez, and Luke Shaw, has shown resilience, securing two clean sheets in the last five matches. The return of Harry Maguire to form has been significant in maintaining their defensive solidity.

Offensively, Bryan Mbeumo leads the line, supported by dynamic wingers Amad and Patrick Dorgu. United’s strategy often involves pressing high and exploiting spaces on the counter-attack, particularly effective given their recent performance against Manchester City, where they secured a 2-0 victory with only 32% possession.

Arsenal vs Manchester United Head-to-Head Record

In the last 50 head-to-head encounters, Manchester United have the upper hand with 22 wins compared to Arsenal’s 16, alongside 12 draws. The most recent meeting saw Arsenal claim a 1-0 victory at Old Trafford in the Premier League back in August 2025.

The last time these two met at the Emirates Stadium in the Premier League, Arsenal came out on top with a 2-0 win in December 2024. This suggests that Arsenal have been strong at home recently, although United’s overall head-to-head advantage cannot be ignored.

Home Side	Away Side	Score	League	Date
Manchester United	Arsenal	0 – 1	Premier League	2025-08-17
Manchester United	Arsenal	1 – 1	Premier League	2025-03-09
Arsenal	Manchester United	1 – 1 (Extra time: 0 – 0) (Penalty shoot-out: 3 – 5)	FA Cup	2025-01-12
Arsenal	Manchester United	2 – 0	Premier League	2024-12-04
Arsenal	Manchester United	2 – 1 (Penalty shoot-out: 3 – 4)	Friendly Match	2024-07-28