Manchester United lost the plot against Arsenal in their season opener in the Premier League 2025-25 on 17th August 2025. The scoreline read 1-0 in favour of Arsenal after a howler from goalkeeper, Altay Bayindir.
Despite displaying a spirited performance right throughout the course of the game, the 13-time Premier League winners, failed to grab points at Old Trafford. Ruben Amorim had decided not to field Andre Onana as he had missed the pre-season because of injuries.
The only goal in the game came in the 13th minute from a set-piece. Declan Rice whipped in the perfect ball from the corner. Turkish goalkeeper Altay Bayindir parried the ball after a slight misjudgement and it allowed Riccardo Calafiori to head home, a simple goal.
Arsenal’s set-piece precision was the ultimate decider in the game as Manchester United failed to the find the equaliser.
However, United did play a gritty brand of football. The likes of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbuemo were impressive on their debut. They were brimming with bursts of energy and found the pockets of space, that could help them outfox Arsenal.
Cunha and Mbeumo fought valiantly against the defenders of Arsenal but the finishing touch from The Red Devils wasn’t up to the mark. Most of their shots lacked energy and venom and it was easy pickings for David Raya.
Ruben Amorim acknowledged his team’s good performance
Despite Manchester United not being able to bag the winning honours in this game at home, their manager, Ruben Amorim, showered praises for the team.
“We did a lot of things right. We were more aggressive and braver. At key moments, I think Bryan and Cunha helped significantly. We stuck to our plan even when the stadium was tense; we continued to play our game, and that will benefit us in the future,” said Ruben Amorim post the game.
Manchester United did display a lot of courage and were pressing constantly to create pressure. This game can be a blueprint for the Premier League heavyweights, who are chasing their first League title since 2013.
