- By Vishal Pushkar
- Mon, 18 Aug 2025 08:26 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Man United vs Arsenal: It was a frustrating outing for Manchester United as they suffered a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Arsenal in their Premier League opener, even after dishing out an aggressive performance at the iconic Old Trafford on Sunday. The visitors made their intent clear as they scored an early goal to gain an early advantage. Riccardo Calafiori scored an early goal for Arsenal, netting one in the 13th minute.
"Like always we were working a lot on set-pieces and that is what we showed today," defender Calafiori said.
United had 22 shots to Arsenal's nine, including seven on target, and 62% of possession against a visiting side who looked nothing like a team that were runners-up the last two seasons.
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United, on the other hand, looked better side with maximum possessions and shots on target. The close-season signings of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, along Patrick Dorgu formed a formidable side. The home side had Arsenal pinned back for most of the second period and kept keeper David Raya busy, forcing him into a diving save to stop Mbeumo's powerful header.
United, who were trailing 1-0 in the match, continued to press for an equaliser, particularly in the second half, with Mbeumo a constant threat down the right. The old guard, Bruno Fernandes and debutant Benjamin Sesko too created some chances but to no avail.
"They created a lot, they were in the right positions," United captain Bruno Fernandes said of Mbeumo and Cunha.
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"We know they are dangerous and they are a threat. We are very aware of what they can give to the team.
"It was a good first impression for them but I'm pretty sure they will do much better."
The Reds will look to bounce back quickly when they face their next Premier League test, hoping for better luck and a result that reflects their attacking intent.
Inputs from Agencies