Arsenal vs Man United Lineups: Predicted XIs, Injuries, and Match Guide

The predicted Arsenal vs Man United lineup for their Premier League encounter on Sunday, January 25, 2026, sees Mikel Arteta fielding a robust 4-3-3 formation featuring David Raya in goal, protected by a backline of Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães, and Jurriën Timber. Manchester United, under the interim guidance of Michael Carrick, is expected to deploy a 4-2-3-1 or a flexible 3-4-2-1 system with Senne Lammens or Altay Bayindir starting in place of the injured Andre Onana, while new signings Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko lead the attack. This fixture marks a critical juncture in the 2025/26 season, with Arsenal currently seven points clear at the top of the table and Manchester United seeking to build on their recent 2-0 derby victory over Manchester City.

In this comprehensive guide, we analyze the deep tactical shifts occurring at both clubs, including Arsenal’s integration of Viktor Gyökeres and the return of a rejuvenated Gabriel Jesus. We also examine Manchester United’s mid-season managerial transition and the impact of recent arrivals like Matheus Cunha and Patrick Dorgu. Beyond the pitch, you will find essential practical information for matchday, historical head-to-head records, and a detailed look at the injury reports shaping these starting elevens.

Arsenal Predicted Lineup: Gunners’ Title Charge

Arsenal enters the late January period in peak form, recently securing Champions League knockout qualification with a 3-1 win over Inter Milan. Mikel Arteta has fostered a squad defined by tactical versatility, where the frontline can seamlessly transition between the physical presence of Viktor Gyökeres and the mobility of Gabriel Jesus.

The midfield remains anchored by Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard, who have benefited from the arrival of Martín Zubimendi. Zubimendi’s ability to control the tempo from deep has allowed Rice to operate in a more advanced “box-to-box” role, making Arsenal significantly more potent in the final third while maintaining defensive solidity.

Man United Predicted Lineup: The Carrick Era

Following the departure of Ruben Amorim, Michael Carrick has stepped in to stabilize Manchester United until the end of the 2025/26 season. His tactical approach focuses on high-speed transitions, utilizing the pace of Amad Diallo and the creative output of captain Bruno Fernandes to exploit high defensive lines.

United’s lineup has been heavily influenced by a summer of aggressive recruitment. Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu have quickly become integral to the wing-back or winger positions, providing the width necessary to support Benjamin Sesko. The defensive core remains reliant on Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martínez, though Harry Maguire continues to offer a physical presence against traditional strikers.

Key Injury News and Absences

Both teams are navigating a busy January schedule with significant fitness concerns. Arsenal has recently welcomed back Gabriel Jesus after an 11-month ACL layoff, and he is already showing signs of his best form. However, the Gunners remain cautious with Bukayo Saka, who has seen his minutes managed more strictly this season to avoid burnout.

Manchester United is currently facing a minor crisis in the goalkeeping department. Andre Onana has struggled with fitness issues since the preseason, often leaving Altay Bayindir or the young Senne Lammens to deputize. In the outfield, Leny Yoro and Luke Shaw continue to manage their return to full match fitness, while Tyrell Malacia remains a long-term doubt for the matchday squad.

Tactical Breakdown: High Press vs. Fast Break

The tactical battle between Arteta and Carrick will likely center on the middle of the park. Arsenal prefers a high-sustained press, aiming to win the ball back within seconds of losing it to starve the opposition of possession.

Carrick’s United is designed to soak up this pressure and strike quickly. With Manuel Ugarte providing a defensive screen, United looks to release Son Heung-min or Amad into the channels. The duel between William Saliba and United’s Benjamin Sesko will be a defining physical contest that could decide the outcome of the game.

Historical Head-to-Head Statistics

The rivalry between Arsenal and Manchester United remains one of the most storied in English football. While the early 2000s were defined by the Wenger-Ferguson era, the modern rivalry is characterized by narrow margins and high-scoring thrillers.

Recent history at the Emirates Stadium has favored Arsenal, with the Gunners winning four of their last five home Premier League meetings against the Red Devils. However, United secured a morale-boosting win in the FA Cup in 2024 and recently defeated Arsenal’s women’s team in a high-profile League Cup semi-final, proving the competitive spirit between these two institutions remains fierce across all levels.

Practical Information and Planning

Attending an Arsenal vs Manchester United match requires significant planning due to the sell-out nature of the fixture.

Matchday Logistics

• Venue: Emirates Stadium, London.
• Kickoff: Typically 4:30 PM for Sunday televised slots.
• Security: Arrive at least 60-90 minutes early for mandatory security screenings.
• Cashless: The Emirates Stadium is a fully cashless venue for food, beverages, and merchandise.

Ticket Prices and Access

Tickets for this “Category A” fixture are among the most expensive in the league. General admission tickets typically range from £70 to £110, while hospitality packages can exceed £600. Tickets are almost exclusively available to club members via a ballot or the official ticket exchange.

How to Get There

• Tube: Arsenal (Piccadilly Line), Highbury & Islington (Victoria Line/Overground), and Finsbury Park (Piccadilly/Victoria Line).
• Bus: Multiple routes serve Holloway Road and Seven Sisters Road.
• Walking: The stadium is a short walk from the Drayton Park and Queensland Road entrances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the current Manchester United manager in 2026? 

Michael Carrick is the interim manager of Manchester United, having been appointed to lead the team until the end of the 2025/26 season following the mid-season departure of Ruben Amorim.

Where is the Arsenal vs Man United match being played? 

The upcoming Premier League match on January 25, 2026, is being held at the Emirates Stadium in North London.

What was the score in the last Arsenal vs Man United game? 

In their last Premier League meeting at the Emirates, Arsenal secured a dominant victory, while their most recent encounter in early 2026 was a Women’s League Cup semi-final where Manchester United won 1-0.

Is Gabriel Jesus fit for the match? 

Yes, Gabriel Jesus has recently returned from a long-term ACL injury and is in contention to start after scoring twice against Inter Milan in the Champions League.

How many goals has Erling Haaland scored in 2026? 

While Haaland plays for Manchester City, his form is often compared to Arsenal’s strikers; he has 20 Premier League goals as of late January 2026, despite a recent scoring slump.

Can I buy tickets on the day of the match? 

No, tickets for Arsenal vs Man United are strictly sold in advance to club members and are almost always sold out weeks before the event.

What are the best transport links to the Emirates Stadium? 

The Piccadilly Line (Arsenal station) and the Victoria Line (Highbury & Islington) provide the most direct access to the stadium area.

Who is the top scorer for Arsenal this season? 

Bukayo Saka and Viktor Gyökeres are currently competing for the top scorer spot, with Saka providing a significant number of assists alongside his goals.

Final Thoughts

the Arsenal vs Man United lineup for the late January 2026 clash highlights two giants of English football moving in opposite tactical directions. Arsenal, under the seasoned leadership of Mikel Arteta, enters the match as the Premier League’s dominant force, bolstered by the sensational return of Gabriel Jesus and the clinical efficiency of Viktor Gyökeres. Their 4-3-3 system has become a blueprint for defensive stability and high-intensity pressing, making the Emirates Stadium a true fortress.

Manchester United, meanwhile, finds itself in a high-stakes transitional period under interim manager Michael Carrick. Despite the managerial upheaval, the “Carrick bounce” is in full effect following a historic 2-0 derby win over Manchester City. With a squad featuring rapid transition specialists like Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo, United has become a dangerous counter-attacking unit capable of upsetting any title charge. This fixture is no longer just a meeting of historical rivals; it is a battle for the very soul of the 2025/26 season.

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