🗓 Matchday 1
Manchester United vs Arsenal
📍 Old Trafford, Manchester
🕠 Kick-off: 17:30 CEST (18:30 local time)
📅 Date: 17 August
⚖ Match Officials
Referee: Simon Hooper
VAR: Paul Tierney
🧤 Possible Starting Lineups
Arsenal:
Raya (GK); White, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Ødegaard, Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Gyökeres, Martinelli.
Manchester United:
Onana (GK); Yoro, Maguire, Shaw; Dalot, Casemiro, Fernandes, Dorgu; Mbeumo, Cunha, Šeško.
🔍 Pre-Match Preview
Let’s get things warmed up with some possible lineups and key talking points ahead of this blockbuster opener!
The match promises an electric atmosphere, with thousands of fans hoping to see their teams make a strong statement at the start of the new Premier League season.
Bruno Fernandes’ deeper role could add tactical depth and control to United’s midfield, especially against a creative Arsenal side that thrives on fluid possession play.
A fascinating subplot will be the head-to-head between Benjamin Šeško and Viktor Gyökeres, two of the most talked-about new signings. Both are expected to make their Premier League debuts today.
A debut goal for Gyökeres at Old Trafford would see him join the exclusive club of players who have scored on their Premier League debut at this iconic venue.
Gyökeres has made a strong impression since his arrival and is widely tipped to start after a standout display against Athletic Club.
For Arsenal, Mikel Arteta may face a late decision on Leandro Trossard’s fitness following a groin issue. Gabriel Jesus remains their only confirmed long-term absentee.
United, meanwhile, will be without Noussair Mazraoui (hamstring) and Lisandro Martínez (knee).
However, the squad has received fitness boosts: Joshua Zirkzee and André Onana have recovered from minor concerns, while Rasmus Højlund is also fit despite recent transfer speculation.
Šeško is reportedly ready both physically and mentally, and could start in a revamped frontline alongside Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, which might see Bruno Fernandes operate in a deeper role.
The summer transfer window saw Benjamin Šeško join Manchester United and Viktor Gyökeres bolster Arsenal’s attacking options — both signings are expected to make an impact today.
Under new full-time manager Rúben Amorim, Manchester United are hoping for a fresh start after finishing 17th last season amid managerial instability. In contrast, Arteta remains at Arsenal, who ended a frustrating campaign in 15th place.
Both clubs are eager to reclaim their former glory after disappointing domestic seasons. United seek redemption, while Arsenal aim to shed their reputation for near misses.
