Manchester United vs Arsenal is a match that always, whatever the context, excites even the most-hard-to-please neutral. Most of you will fondly remember the days of Fergie vs Wenger, flying pizzas and title-deciders, the days that, for United fans, increasingly seem distant. Today’s clash only accentuates that state of affairs.
The hosts suffered their latest post-Fergie low on Monday night with a 4-0 thrashing at the hands of Crystal Palace. A result that was only beaten by the performance in terms of incompetence and embarrassment. So United come into this match with expectations about as low as they can be. If Arsenal play anywhere near the level they can do, they will win. How often have you been able to say that regards this fixture?
The other bit of context is that the north Londoners need to win to maintain their title charge, anything other than three points today will all but gift the trophy to Manchester City.
So, as per usual, there is a lot riding on the outcome of this fixture, but not in the usual sense for United fans who will be desperate to see their side put in a good performance. Such is the low ebb the club finds itself in that’s all they really ask for today. How times change.
Ahead of the match Erik ten Hag hit out at his many critics saying: “I think the fans have the patience – you’ve seen it on Monday.
“But when I see some comments, they don’t. And either they don’t have any knowledge about football, or they don’t have any knowledge about managing a football team. It’s possible, or they just are up to it.
“But I think there are many people that see the problems and they are patient.”
The United manager can only hope that his side come out swinging just as hard once the referee starts the match this afternoon.
Stay here for all the team news, build up and action with kick-off set for 4.30.
