Arsenal and Manchester United Face Crucial Tests in Premier League Return

Arsenal and Manchester United Face Crucial Tests in Premier League Return

Arsenal’s title aspirations face a stern test as they visit rivals Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday, while Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag seeks a response from his struggling side at Southampton.

Arsenal, who have already dropped points against Brighton, will be without captain Martin Odegaard and midfielder Mikel Merino due to injuries. The Gunners’ task is further complicated by the suspension of Declan Rice, who was controversially sent off in the Brighton match.

Tottenham, on the other hand, have started the season with two wins and a draw and will be looking to capitalize on Arsenal’s injury woes. The north London derby is always a fiercely contested affair, and this one promises to be no different.

Manchester United, meanwhile, are in desperate need of a positive result after consecutive defeats to Brighton and Liverpool. Ten Hag has pleaded for patience, but the pressure is mounting on the Dutchman to deliver results.

Southampton, who have yet to register a point this season, will be hoping to take advantage of United’s poor form. However, the Saints will need to improve defensively after conceding seven goals in their opening three games.

Elsewhere, Manchester City will be looking to continue their impressive start to the season when they host Brentford. Erling Haaland has already scored three hat-tricks in his first three Premier League games and will be aiming to make history by becoming the first player to score three consecutive hat-tricks.

Other fixtures to watch out for include Brighton vs. Ipswich, Crystal Palace vs. Leicester, Fulham vs. West Ham, Liverpool vs. Nottingham Forest, Aston Villa vs. Everton, Bournemouth vs. Chelsea, Wolves vs. Newcastle, and Southampton vs. Manchester United.