Goals from Jurrien Timber and William Saliba helped Arsenal edge closer to Premier League leaders Liverpool, as they secured a 2-0 victory over Manchester United in a thrilling mid-week clash.
This match also served as a preview for their upcoming FA Cup third-round encounter, where the two teams will meet again at the Emirates Stadium in January.
Arsenal nearly took an early lead when Gabriel Martinelli scored just four minutes in after Andre Onana misplayed a pass, but the goal was ruled out for offside against Kai Havertz. Nevertheless, Arsenal maintained pressure with a high press that troubled United’s defense, particularly on the right side, with Bukayo Saka frequently driving into the box.
Despite this pressure, United managed to hold firm and did not register a touch or shot in the Arsenal box for the first 42 minutes. The closest they came to scoring was just before half-time when Diogo Dalot’s shot across goal was narrowly missed.
Jurrien Timber broke the deadlock eight minutes into the second half, converting a well-executed corner from Declan Rice, marking Arsenal’s first shot on target in the match.
In response, United manager Amorim made several substitutions, bringing in goalscorers Marcus Rashford and Joshua Zirkzee from the previous weekend, along with debutant Lenny Yoro. However, these changes had little impact as Arsenal continued to dominate, particularly from set pieces.
Saka’s next corner found Thomas Partey, who headed it back across goal, resulting in Saliba doubling the lead with a goal off his back, sealing all three points for Arsenal. With this victory, Arsenal now sits third in the table, trailing London rivals Chelsea on goal difference but reducing their gap to league leaders Liverpool to seven points, following Liverpool’s 3-3 draw against Newcastle. Meanwhile, United has dropped to 11th place.
Player Ratings
Arsenal
GK – David Raya – 6/10Had a quiet first half with little action but was effective with his ball distribution. Made a crucial save to deny De Ligt in the second half.
RB – Jurrien Timber – 7/10Managed Garnacho well and scored with a glancing header, adding to his solid performance.
CB – William Saliba – 8/10Commanded the defense and kept United’s attack at bay. Scored a goal, albeit inadvertently, adding to his strong performance.
CB – Jakub Kiwior – 7/10Performed admirably as Gabriel’s replacement, winning most duels and looking to play long balls effectively.
LB – Oleksandr Zinchenko – 6/10Kept United’s right flank quiet but struggled with possession at times. Made key defensive blocks.
CM – Declan Rice – 8/10Provided an excellent assist for Timber’s goal with a precise set-piece delivery. Dominated in possession and orchestrated attacks.
CM – Martin Ødegaard – 7/10Consistently created opportunities for teammates and linked play effectively.
CM – Thomas Partey – 6/10Should have scored in the first half but misjudged his header.
RW – Bukayo Saka – 6.5/10Was Arsenal’s main attacking threat but struggled with his crosses into the box.
ST – Kai Havertz – 6/10Didn’t threaten much but had good hold-up play and won several duels.
LW – Gabriel Martinelli – 5/10Aside from a disallowed goal, he was largely ineffective, with most play moving down the opposite flank.
Sub – Leandro Trossard – 6/10Brought energy to the attack but couldn’t find the net.
Sub – Mikel Merino – 6.5/10Looked to contribute from set-pieces but had a header saved by Onana.
Sub – Jorginho – N/ADid not play long enough to make an impact.
Manchester United
GK – Andre Onana – 6/10Had little to do but dealt well with Arsenal’s set pieces. Struggled with positioning on both goals.
RWB – Diogo Dalot – 6/10Missed a great chance just before half-time, shooting wide.
CB – Harry Maguire – 6.5/10The most commanding of the center-backs, occasionally ventured forward.
CB – Noussair Mazraoui – 6.5/10Active on the pitch, playing forward but prone to fouls.
CB – Matthijs de Ligt – 6/10Looked threatening on set pieces but had a shaky defensive performance.
LWB – Tyrell Malacia – 6/10Booked in the first half and subbed off at halftime. Made a key tackle against Timber.
CM – Manuel Ugarte – 6/10Received a booking and was active but failed to influence the game significantly.
CM – Bruno Fernandes – 6/10Worked hard defensively but struggled to make an impact in midfield.
RW – Mason Mount – 4/10Had a quiet night with only 15 touches before being substituted.
ST – Rasmus Hojlund – 4/10Did not receive much service and failed to contribute effectively to the attack.
LW – Alejandro Garnacho – 7/10Was a key part of United’s attacks, especially in the first half.
Sub – Amad Diallo – 6/10Brought energy after halftime but couldn’t create significant chances.
Sub – Marcus Rashford – 5/10Failed to make an impact after coming on, with poor passing and dribbling.
Sub – Joshua Zirkzee – 5/10Had minimal involvement but contributed defensively.
Sub – Lenny Yoro – 6/10Made his Premier League debut but struggled to adapt to the game’s pace.
Sub – Antony – N/ADid not play long enough to influence the match.
Man of the MatchWilliam Saliba (Arsenal)Saliba was a rock at the back, effectively managing United’s threats and contributing offensively. His goal, even if accidental, highlighted his importance in the match and strengthened Arsenal’s position in the title race.