Two of English football’s most storied clubs clash in a highly anticipated FA Cup third-round encounter on Sunday. Arsenal, the FA Cup’s most successful team with 14 titles, welcome defending champions Manchester United to the Emirates Stadium. Both teams aim to assert their dominance in this historic competition.
Arsenal’s Recent FA Cup Struggles
Since their last FA Cup win in 2020, Arsenal have struggled in the tournament, experiencing early exits in the past four seasons, including a third-round defeat to Liverpool last year. The Gunners also faltered in the EFL Cup this week, losing 2-0 to Newcastle United in the semi-final first leg.
Despite these setbacks, Mikel Arteta’s side has proven their ability to dethrone defending champions, doing so in their last six FA Cup matchups with titleholders. Additionally, Arsenal triumphed over Manchester United 2-0 at the Emirates in a Premier League clash just weeks ago, boosting their confidence for this showdown.
Manchester United’s Roadblocks
Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United arrive at the Emirates amid a turbulent spell. The team extended their winless streak to five games after a 2-2 draw against Liverpool last weekend, with defensive issues persisting. United have conceded at least two goals in each of their last nine matches.
However, the defending champions have a strong record in the FA Cup’s third round, advancing in nine of their last 10 matches. Their recent history against Arsenal also bodes well, having won three of their last four FA Cup meetings, including a 3-1 victory at the Emirates in 2019.
Team News and Probable Lineups
Arsenal:
Arteta will be without Bukayo Saka (hamstring), Ethan Nwaneri (muscle), Ben White (knee), and Takehiro Tomiyasu (knee). Gabriel Jesus may replace Leandro Trossard on the right wing, while Riccardo Calafiori could feature on the left. On-loan goalkeeper Neto might make his debut for the Gunners.
Predicted lineup:
Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Odegaard, Rice, Merino; Jesus, Havertz, Martinelli
Manchester United:
Marcus Rashford, recovering from illness, could return, though his potential transfer creates uncertainty. Amorim has confirmed that Altay Bayindir will start in goal. Mason Mount (thigh), Victor Lindelof (unspecified), and Luke Shaw (calf) remain unavailable.
Predicted lineup:
Bayindir; De Ligt, Maguire, Martinez; Mazraoui, Ugarte, Mainoo, Dalot; Diallo, Fernandes; Hojlund
Prediction
Arsenal’s struggles in front of goal against Newcastle may persist, especially against a determined Manchester United. However, the Red Devils’ inconsistency and Arsenal’s home advantage should tilt the balance in favor of the Gunners.
Final Score Prediction: Arsenal 1-1 Manchester United (Arsenal to win on penalties).
The Gunners are poised to edge past United and end their title defense in this electrifying FA Cup encounter.
