As two English giants will lock horns for the one last time this season when Manchester United host London rivals Arsenal at Old Trafford this weekend, a supporter gives their view on the final top four clash of the campaign.
A lot is at stake as the two giants clash, with the potential of a third placed finish, and the prospect of direct qualification to the Champions League next season. Looking at the current form of the North Londoner’s, the club’s three month unbeaten streak came to an end at home to Swansea, following a 0-1 defeat to the Welsh side. Whereas the hosts, United, overcame their three consecutive defeats to Chelsea, Everton and West Brom – after winning the big Manchester Derby – by winning 1-2 at Crystal Palace.
Even though both sides have confirmed their ticket to Europe next season, second place, which was once in sight for Louis van Gaal, now seems unlikely for the Red Devils. The Dutchman’s tactics have worked very well for United as the club’s aim for a top four finish has been comfortably accomplished, and along with the players, fans too have been very supportive to the manager.
The two sides have met each other twice this season, with the first fixture taking place at the Emirates. With Wayne Rooney sealing a 2-1 victory, the recent form of the skipper suggests he may be back to hassle the Gunners’ defensive line once again. The second fixture, played at Old Trafford, saw a mistake by Antonio Valencia give the ball away to former Red Danny Welbeck, who scored the winner to knock his boyhood club out of the FA Cup.
Fortunes have turned for the Manchester club since then, as they went on to win six consecutive matches in Premier League which included big games against opponents like Tottenham, Liverpool and reigning champions Manchester City, and I feel another streak of victories to conclude the season could be on the cards. Arsenal had maintained their good run until their defeat to Swansea, which saw them pushed down to third in table below in form Man City.
Both United and Arsenal would rely on their key players for this big fixture. Marouane Fellaini, Ashley Young and Juan Mata have been phenomenal for the Red Devils this season, and I feel they could be the difference between joyous celebrations or despair come the full-time whistle. However, the loss of Michael Carrick for the remaining two games could hurt us, and I feel Arsenal could pile considerable pressure on our youthful defence and in-form goalkeeper David de Gea. The PFA Team of the Year shot stopper was brilliant in last weekend’s 1-2 win over Palace, and will hope to recreate his ever-present form in the final weeks
Arsenal are likely to keep players such as Mesut Ozil, Alexis Sanchez, Santi Cazorla and Olivier Giroud in the team, and the visitors could have to rely on individuals to spark a victory for a squad lacking quality in depth. Questions about goalkeeper David Ospina have been arising after his mistake against Swansea, and many believe a goalkeeping replacement in the summer could be required. However, after our lackluster attacking form, Radamel Falcao and Robin van Persie may need to be at their best to put Arsenal’s weakness to Manchester United’s advantage.
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