Arsenal kicked off their Premier League campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Manchester United at Old Trafford, marking their fourth consecutive opening day victory. The decisive moment came early in the first half when a goalkeeping mistake by United’s Altay Bayindir allowed defender Riccardo Calafiori to score from close range.
With a fresh sense of optimism under new manager Ruben Amorim, Manchester United started the match with energy, but struggled to truly test Arsenal’s goalkeeper, David Raya. The hosts’ momentum was halted in the 13th minute when Declan Rice’s corner delivery created chaos in the penalty area. Bayindir, standing in for the absent Andre Onana, fumbled his attempt to clear the ball, redirecting it directly to Calafiori, who headed it into an empty net. The goal, Arsenal’s 12th in a row at Old Trafford, settled the visitors.
Following the goal, United’s new attacking signings began to assert themselves. Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, in particular, looked lively. Mbeumo saw one effort deflected wide and later had a powerful header brilliantly saved by Raya, while Cunha forced the Arsenal keeper into a pair of crucial saves with his forceful runs. United’s closest chance came when Patrick Dorgu rattled the base of the post with a low shot.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with United dominating possession and continuing to search for an equalizer. Despite their clear intent and constant pressure, they failed to create the kind of clear-cut chances that would break down a resolute Arsenal defense.
In the final ten minutes, Arsenal’s astute defensive work and game management meant they were able to withstand any late threats, seeing out the victory. The win extends the Gunners’ unbeaten away run in the league to 15 matches, and gives them a confident start to their 100th top-flight campaign. While the result was disappointing for United, the performance, particularly from their new attacking talent, showed promise for the season ahead.
