Manchester, UK: Manchester United’s Premier League campaign began with a narrow 1-0 defeat to Arsenal at Old Trafford on Sunday, a match that the hosts dominated in both halves to give Ruben Amorim a glimpse of hope in the 2025/26 season.
The match’s only goal came in the 13th minute when Arsenal’s Riccardo Calafiori capitalized on a mishandled corner by United goalkeeper Altay Bayındır, who failed to clear Declan Rice’s delivery, allowing the Italian defender to score with a close-range header.
Despite the early setback, United dominated possession, holding 61.2% and registering 22 shots, as new signings Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha showcased their attacking prowess. Patrick Dorgu also came close to equalizing, hitting the post with a powerful shot.
Amorim’s tactical adjustments, including deploying Mason Mount as a false nine and excluding key players like Amad Diallo and Benjamin Sesko from the starting lineup, demonstrated his intent to implement a dynamic playing style, and while the team lacked clinical finishing, their overall performance suggests potential for growth in this new campaign.
Arsenal’s goalkeeper David Raya played a crucial role in preserving the lead, making several key saves to thwart United’s attacking efforts, including a fingertip save to thwart Mbeumo’s latest shot away from danger.
Cunha, signed from Wolves, too, had already fired some efforts his way but were handled well by the eventual Man of the Match winner, Raya.
While the result was disappointing, Manchester United’s performance under Amorim indicates a promising foundation for the season ahead. With continued development and refinement, the team aims to build on these positives in future matches.
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