Manchester United vs Arsenal Prediction, Preview, Team News and Lineups 09.03.2025

• Date and Time: Sunday, March 9, 2025, 11:30 AM ET
• Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester, England

Manchester United vs Arsenal Preview and Team News 

Manchester United Team News

Manchester United enter this fixture amidst a challenging season under manager Ruben Amorim. The team currently sits 14th in the Premier League, having secured only seven points from six matches. 

Manchester United’s recent form has been a mixed bag, reflecting both moments of promise and periods of concern. 

In the FA Cup, United faced Fulham in a match that ended 1-1 after regular time, leading to a penalty shootout where Fulham emerged victorious. The game was marked by missed opportunities and defensive lapses, culminating in United’s exit from the competition. ​

Following this, United traveled to Spain for the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie against Real Sociedad. 

The match concluded in a 1-1 draw, with Joshua Zirkzee providing the lead before a controversial handball decision allowed Sociedad to equalize via a penalty. Despite creating several chances, United struggled to capitalize, highlighting ongoing issues in converting opportunities and maintaining defensive composure under pressure.

Keep grafting, Garna 👏📈#MUFC pic.twitter.com/jXPxuXcNKB

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 7, 2025

Prior to that match, they achieved a 3-2 victory at home against Ipswich Town. However, this was succeeded by a 2-2 draw away at Everton. In the previous matches, they experienced a 0-1 loss to Tottenham Hotspur and a 0-2 defeat at home to Crystal Palace, which revealed weaknesses in their defensive setup.

Amorim’s steadfast commitment to a 3-4-3 formation has been met with criticism, as it appears misaligned with the squad’s existing strengths. This tactical rigidity has been cited as a factor contributing to United’s underwhelming performances, including a recent FA Cup exit to Fulham.

We move ✊#MUFC pic.twitter.com/DY6YJC9ajM

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 7, 2025

The central defensive trio has struggled with coordination, leading to vulnerabilities that opponents have exploited.​ 

In possession, United’s build-up play has been hampered by a lack of cohesion between the midfield and attacking lines. Bruno Fernandes, tasked with linking play, has often found himself isolated, limiting his effectiveness. 

While providing width, the wing-backs have not consistently delivered quality crosses, reducing the supply to the forwards.

An important goal for Zirk, in more ways than one 🤝#MUFC || #UEL

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 7, 2025

Manchester United are grappling with a series of injuries that have significantly impacted their squad depth. Lisandro Martinez, Amad Diallo, Luke Shaw, Patrick Dorgu, Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount and Jonny Evans are all sidelined.

Manchester United predicted lineup vs Arsenal (4-3-3): Onana; de Ligt, Yoro, Lindelof; Mazraoui, Fernandes, Casemiro, Dalot; Garnacho, Zirkzee; Obi 

Arsenal Team News

Arsenal, under Mikel Arteta, have experienced a season of highs and lows. Currently positioned second in the Premier League, the Gunners are six points adrift of leaders Liverpool. Their recent form includes a commanding 7-1 victory over PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League, a goalless draw against Nottingham Forest, and a 1-0 home defeat to West Ham United.

The Gunners’ proficiency in set-pieces, particularly corners, has been a significant weapon. The coordinated movements and precise deliveries have resulted in multiple goals, as evidenced in their previous encounter with Manchester United. 

However, Saka’s absence necessitates a reevaluation of this strategy, potentially reducing their threat from dead-ball situations.

A special night ♥️

Watch highlights of our 7-1 win over PSV in the Champions League on Tuesday 👇 pic.twitter.com/2JSZw92kjF

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) March 7, 2025

In addition, Arteta has experimented with Mikel Merino in advanced roles to compensate for attacking injuries, adding a new dimension to their play. Arsenal’s pressing game remains intense, aiming to disrupt the opposition’s buildup and regain possession high up the pitch.

Arsenal are contending with several significant injuries impacting key players. 

Forward Gabriel Jesus underwent surgery for an anterior cruciate ligament injury in his left knee. 

Richy rounds off the win ❤️‍🔥 pic.twitter.com/qOhqzQ3AcE

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) March 6, 2025

Defender Takehiro Tomiyasu experienced ongoing knee issues; his rehabilitation is anticipated to conclude by October 6, 2025. Midfielder Kai Havertz suffered a thigh injury and is projected to return by July. Wingers Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka are both sidelined with thigh injuries, with expected returns in early April and mid-March.

Arsenal predicted lineup vs Manchester United (3-4-3): Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Rice, Partey, Ødegaard; Nwaneri, Merino, Trossard.

Manchester United vs Arsenal Prediction 

• Pick: draw or Arsenal FC
• Odds: -527 (20Bet)
• Score prediction: Manchester United 1-2 Arsenal

From my point of view, considering the current form and tactical setups of both teams, Arsenal, despite injuries to their attacking leaders, are a team with a more cohesive game that is much more solid defensively and can perfectly take advantage of Manchester United’s poor play during set-pieces.

We may well expect a win for the visitors. 

However, this season Man United have shown the ability to remain focused and defend solidly in a low block when facing top opponents. They successfully execute counterattacks using a 3-4-3 formation. This could cause Arsenal some problems and prevent them from getting a win in this match.

Manchester United vs Arsenal Prediction, Betting Tip

• Pick: Corners. Total Over 10.5 
• Odds: +125 (20Bet)

Manchester United has averaged 4.73 corners per game this season, while Arsenal has been more prolific in earning corners, averaging 6.73 per game.

In their previous Premier League encounter on December 4, 2024, Arsenal secured a 2-0 victory over Manchester United, with both goals originating from corner routines, highlighting their efficiency from set-pieces.

Considering both teams’ tactical tendencies, it’s reasonable to expect a total of approximately 10 to 12 corners in the upcoming match.

Arsenal vs Manchester United Where to Watch (USA, Canada) 

• NBC (USA)
• Fubo TV (Canada)

Disclaimer: The content provided on this page, including all soccer predictions, odds, and related information, is for entertainment and informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure accuracy and timeliness, we do not guarantee the correctness or reliability of any predictions, data, or information presented here.

By Alexander Yaremenko

Updated: 07 Mar 2025, 14:09