The Premier League has witnessed many rivalries in its elongated history but very few could match the intensity of Man United's rivalry with Arsenal. The Red Devils used to dominate the league in the 90's when Sir Alex Ferguson was in charge at the Old Trafford.
But when Arsene Wenger arrived in London, things looked to change drastically. The Champions had to fight hard for the championship and the Gunners changed the fate of the Premier League with their evolution.
Both teams ruled the league for almost a decade(1997-2005) and it was the birth for another fierce rivalry in English football. There was a real sense of hatred between both the clubs for each other. From Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger, to Roy Keane and Patrick Vieira, to Jose Mourinho and Arsene Wenger, the feud has soared manifold.
Today Manchester United will take on Arsenal for the first time this season. Now we will be looking at three reasons why United will come out victorious tonight.
#3 Arsenal's poor record at Old Trafford
The Gunners have failed to defeat Manchester United in their own backyard since 2006 in the Premier League. The last victory in Manchester came back in 2015, when they knocked out the home side in the quarter-finals of the F.A Cup. Since then the north London side has failed to register a win at the theatre of dreams.
However, the newly appointed boss Unai Emery will be looking to change the fortunes of the away team and look to punish the inconsistent home side. Lately, Arsenal has been a much-improved side with the arrival of their Spanish coach but their terrible record at Old Trafford might come back to haunt them.
Mourinho will be prepared for the ultimate test of temperament and United need to play fearlessly if they want to defeat the Gunners. With the home advantage, they will be a different side altogether unlike the team who was struggling at St. Mary's.
#2 Mourinho's tactics in crunch matches
Jose "The Special One" Mourinho is known to keep his best for the best. He is a mastermind and has all the tricks up his sleeves to frustrate any time on or off the field. Mourinho has this uncanny habit of playing mind games with the top opponents and often ends up winning the battle. He has a reputation that he prepares his team differently for the crucial matches and delivers when it matters the most.
United will be desperate to get a win against Arsenal after their frustrating 2-2 draw at St. Mary's. However, the Gunners will come at them all guns blazing, high on confidence after their 4-2 victory in the north London derby. Emery has infused a new life in Arsenal since his arrival at the Emirates. We are now seeing a different Arsenal from the Wenger era, who are playing attractive and beautiful football.
Mourinho will know what he is up against and has to prepare accordingly for the battle. United has been sloppy in their defence and they have to work on that if they have to stand any chance against Emery's men. Jose has some great attacking options who could prove to be vital in counter-attacking football that he loves to play.
#1 United's players returning to form
Last three league matches have been really frustrating for the Red Devils as they failed to register a single win. But their form in Champions League football has seen a massive improvement after beating Juventus and Young Boys. Many crucial players like Lukaku, Pogba, Mata, Martial and Herrera have been in fine form which is a positive sign for the home side.
Lukaku also ended his long goal-drought finally, in his last match against the Saints. United will be hoping that he continues with his scoring streak in the league at home. Herrera has also cemented his spot in the starting lineup and could play an important linkup role between the defence and front three. Martial and Mata have also lately found their form under Mourinho and the Pogba-factor could be the decisive one when these two premier league heavyweights clash tonight.
After Sanchez got ruled out due to an injury, Rashford and Lukaku could be used together upfront to give a better balance to the team. Martial and Rashford's will look to upset the defence with their blistering pace and quick feet. Lukaku will be a constant threat with his world-class finishing skills. However, Pogba and Herrera can dictate by controlling the pace of the game and creating crucial chances with their playmaking abilities.
Mourinho's men will be desperate to get an early start and look to get on the scoring sheet in the early phase of the match. Emery will be hoping for another comeback to maintain the Gunners' 19-match unbeaten run in all competitions. The stage is set and now we have to watch what unfolds at the Old Trafford.