talking point as Manchester United and Arsenal clashed during USA pre-season tour, as Bruno and Sancho gave United a win
- A strike from Bruno Fernandes and Sancho gave Manchester United a victory
- Few big signings like Rice and Mount all got a playing time
- United also won Arsenal during the penalty shootout
Man utd vs Arsenal pre season: Portugal’s talented player, Fernandes, who was recently appointed as the permanent captain at Old Trafford, broke the deadlock with a well-placed low shot that proved too difficult for Aaron Ramsdale to save. In the 37th minute, Sancho showcased his exceptional skills with an impressive run and finish, securing a comfortable victory for United. The match proceeded to a penalty shootout, where United emerged triumphant.
Christian Eriksen’s opportunity to equalize was foiled by Fabio Vieira’s miss, and United capitalized on the chance. Eriksen’s miss opened the door for United’s fifth successful spot-kick, which was confidently converted by him. Prior to that, spot-kicks were brilliantly executed by Casemiro, Diogo Dalot, Victor Lindelof, and Marcus Rashford.
Arsenal almost got an opportunity in front of goal
Antony created a clear opening early on, but Gabriel Martinelli’s shot was smartly saved by veteran Tom Heaton.
In the second half, the match lost its earlier intensity, but it remained physical with challenges flying in. Arsenal started brightly, with Eddie Nketiah dragging a shot wide from Odegaard’s free kick.
The fixture saw the debut of summer signings Declan Rice, Jurrien Timber, and Mason Mount, while the recently axed United captain Harry Maguire appeared as a second-half substitute. Manchester United’s new goalkeeper, Andre Onana, who was signed from Inter, was present at the MetLife Stadium but didn’t play as he had only joined the squad on Friday.
Mikel Arteta reaction in the Man utd vs Arsenal pre season clash
Gunners manager Mikel Arteta openly acknowledged, “I’m not comfortable with the way I feel at the moment,” and he emphasized that “we all despise losing” following his team’s defeat.
Meanwhile, United’s coach Erik ten Hag, fully immersed in the game, had to be restrained by captain Fernandes during an incident with the fourth official. Nonetheless, he expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, stating, “we delivered an excellent game.”
During United’s victory against Arsenal, a series of intense physical clashes unfolded on the field. One notable incident involved defender Lisandro Martinez executing a robust challenge on Bukayo Saka. The Argentine World Cup winner later confronted Martin Odegaard, adding to the already heated atmosphere of the match.
Mount, William Saliba, and Luke Shaw didn’t hesitate to intervene after witnessing the forceful tackle that nearly affected Martinez’s teammate, Kobbie Mainoo.
Mikel Arteta expressed his displeasure with United’s display of physicality, stating, “Both teams are here to compete and win, and it’s the responsibility of the referee to maintain control over the game.”
Few big signings like Rice and Mount all got a playing time
The spotlight of two major summer transfer stories shone brightly on the pitch when the former Chelsea youngsters, Mount and Rice, faced off.
Although both players made limited contributions, Rice seemed slightly off the pace in the midfield battle. On the other hand, Mount had a chance to score but saw his shot blocked by Saliba after an impressive attacking move by United.
Mount was substituted at half-time, while Rice managed to stay on the field for an hour before being replaced.
