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Manchester United vs Arsenal LIVE: Premier League result, final score and reaction

Manchester United vs Arsenal LIVE: Premier League result, final score and reaction

Cristiano Ronaldo reached 800 career goals as his brace secured Manchester United a much-needed victory against Arsenal as interim manager Ralf Rangnick saw his new side triumph from the stands.

A lot has changed at Old Trafford since their last home game 26 days ago, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer losing his job after that loss to Manchester City was compounded by a shocking defeat at Watford.

United coach Michael Carrick has steadied the ship during an unbeaten three-match caretaker stint that ended with an entertaining 3-2 victory against Arsenal at a bouncing Old Trafford.

It was only their second win in nine Premier League games and a timely shot in the arm ahead of Rangnick’s first game in charge against Crystal Palace this Sunday.

The German has signed a deal until the end of the season and Thursday’s match will have given him food for thought, having seen the quality and ongoing concerns first hand from the directors’ box.

Finding a way to keep clean sheets will be key if this season is to be a success for United, although there was little that could be done to prevent Emile Smith Rowe’s bizarre opener.

David De Gea was rolling around in pain when the Arsenal youngster struck, with the VAR instructing referee Martin Atkinson to award the goal as it was the Spaniard’s team-mate Fred that hurt the goalkeeper.

Bruno Fernandes, making his 100th United appearance, levelled before half-time, with Ronaldo turning home Marcus Rashford’s cross to bring up 800 goals for club and country early in the second half.

But Arsenal took just two minutes to bring this helter-skelter clash back level as Martin Odegaard found the net with a low finish - good work undone 16 minutes later by his rash challenge on Fred inside the box.

Atkinson awarded the penalty after the VAR advised he watch the pitchside monitor, with Ronaldo keeping his cool in front of the Stretford End to lash home what proved to be the winner. Relive all the action below:

Manchester United vs Arsenal

  • Ronaldo scores winner from penalty spot

  • Odegaard fires back instantly

  • Ronaldo puts United in front

  • Smith Rowe scores controversial opener

  • Man Utd: De Gea, Dalot, Lindelof, Maguire, Telles, McTominay, Fred, Sancho, Fernandes, Rashford, Ronaldo

  • Fernandes equalises on brink of half-time

  • Arsenal: Ramsdale, Tomiyasu, White, Gabriel, Tavares, Elneny, Partey, Odegaard, Smith Rowe, Martinelli, Aubameyang

Fred provides perfect snapshot of Ralf Rangnick’s puzzle at Manchester United

22:40 , Michael Jones

It was powerfully poetic that as Manchester United’s past and present collided at Old Trafford, with a banner of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer colouring the Stretford End being stared at by Ralf Rangnick in the directors’ box, that we are more confused than ever as to what to expect of their future.

The new interim manager, freshly bestowed with a work permit and with only a watching brief against Arsenal with Michael Carrick in charge, tuned in as Fred assisted one of the all-time comedic and plain-weird goals in Premier League history by injuring his goalkeeper, before helping craft a very fine one and then winning the penalty that won the game.

The Brazilian is perhaps a perfect snapshot of United’s state: the good, the bad, the my god - what is happening?!

Fred provides perfect snapshot of Rangnick’s puzzle at Man Utd

Cristiano Ronaldo penalty seals Manchester United victory in thriller against Arsenal

22:36 , Michael Jones

If you are already bored of the interminable debate over whether Cristiano Ronaldo is a help or a hindrance to Manchester United, we are afraid to report it will not be going away any time soon.

Not if, as even more attention is paid to what he does off the ball, he keeps winning matches with what he does on it.

Ronaldo penalty seals Man United victory in thriller against Arsenal

Carrick on his time at Manchester United

22:33 , Michael Jones

In the club’s online statement Michael Carrick outlined a few thoughts behind his decision to leave saying:

My time at this great club will always rank as the best years of my career. When I first signed over 15 years ago, I never in my wildest dreams could have imagined winning so many trophies and I will certainly never forget the fantastic memories both as a player and as a member of the coaching team.

“However, after a lot of thought and deliberation, I have decided that now is the right time for me to leave the club. I want to place on record my thanks to all of the players and a special mention goes to the backroom staff, working long hours with such a great group of people has been a real pleasure and I have made some long-lasting friendships.

“I am, and will always be, a Manchester United fan and will come to as many matches as possible. I would like to wish Ralf, the staff, the players and the fans all the best for the future and I look forward to being in the stands and supporting the boys as a fan.”

Michael Carrick leaves Manchester United with immediate effect after caretaker manager spell

22:29 , Michael Jones

Michael Carrick has Manchester United with immediate effect having stepped down as first team coach following his spell as caretaker manager.

Michael Carrick leaves Manchester United with immediate effect after caretaker spell

Carrick to leave Manchester United

22:27 , Michael Jones

Manchester United have announced that Michael Carrick will leave the club immediately following their 3-2 victory over Arsenal. The news was just announced on the club website with Football Director John Murtough saying:

“Michael leaves with the sincerest thanks and best wishes of everyone at Manchester United after 15 years of exceptional service to the club as a player and as a coach. While we are sad to see him go, we respect and understand Michael’s decision.

“He will always be known as one of the finest midfielders in the history of Manchester United, and, more recently, as an excellent coach who has worked tirelessly under two managers to help develop the strong squad which Ralf will now take charge of.

“We are grateful for the steady leadership Michael has shown through this period of managerial transition, and, while he is now stepping away from day-to-day involvement, he will always be welcome back as a legend of the club.”

Man Utd 3 - 2 Arsenal

22:24 , Michael Jones

Second half goals from Cristiano Ronaldo (x2) and Martin Odegaard made this one a close run affair but Ronaldo’s penalty was the difference between the teams.

 (AFP via Getty Images)
(AFP via Getty Images)
 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

Man Utd 3 - 2 Arsenal

22:20 , Michael Jones

Arsenal have lost a Premier League game at Old Trafford, Anfield and the Etihad Stadium in a single season for the third time, after 2013-14 and 2017-18.

Man Utd 3 - 2 Arsenal

22:18 , Michael Jones

That defeat means that Arsenal remain in fifth just one point behind West Ham whilst Man Utd jump up to seventh and are now three points of the top four.

There are now just three points separating West Ham (4th) and Wolves (8th) setting up a tantilising battle for the Champions League places.

Man Utd 3 - 2 Arsenal

22:16 , Michael Jones

What a cracking game that was! Emile Smith Rowe’s controversial opener gave Arsenal the lead but Bruno Fernandes drew United level before the break. 90 seconds separated goals from Cristiano Ronaldo and Martin Odegaard to keep things level after half-time but it was a penalty from Ronaldo that ensured United took hom the three points.

Full-time: Man Utd 3 - 2 Arsenal

22:13 , Michael Jones

90+5 mins: Manchester United win! The full-time whistle goes and the Red Devils come from behind to take the points! Michael Carrick remains unbeaten as caretaker boss and Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 800th and 801st goals.

Man Utd 3 - 2 Arsenal

22:09 , Michael Jones

90+2 mins: Tavares feeds the ball to Saka who delivers a cross into the box from the left. Lacazette is the target but Maguire gets to it first. Arsenal recover the ball and swing a cross into the back post. Gabriel wins the header and knocks it down but United carry it out of the penalty area and win a free kick.

Man Utd 3 - 2 Arsenal

22:06 , Michael Jones

90 mins: Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes are off for Man Utd with Anthony Martial and Donny van de Beek brought on to close out this game.

Five minutes of added time to play. Plenty of time for another goal.

Man Utd 3 - 2 Arsenal

22:04 , Michael Jones

88 mins: Saka brings a cross down on the right side of the United box and his shot is knocked behind by a sliding Fred. Saka himself takes the corner but Ronaldo heads it clear. The ball comes to Sancho who breaks past the Arsenal midfield and sprints up the pitch. Ronaldo and Fernandes fly up with him so Sancho plays it inside and Fernandes’ effort is sent out of play by a back-tracking Tomiyasu.

Man Utd 3 - 2 Arsenal

22:01 , Michael Jones

86 mins: Arsenal pen United deep in their own half but a clearance down the left wing from Telles stays in play and frees Lingard to sweep down the pitch. He carries the ball into the box but has no options up with him. Instead he eases away from Partey and shoots with a weak left-foot leaving Ramsdale with an easy save.

Man Utd 3 - 2 Arsenal

21:59 , Michael Jones

83 mins: Arsenal are going for it. This game doesn’t feel over, the atmosphere seems to be building to another goal. Saka squeezes the ball out to Elneny who knocks it across to Tavares. He passes it back to Gabriel who’s immediately put under pressure by Ronaldo. The Man Utd striker scrambles to the ball and begins to break way before the whistle goes and he’s penalised for a foul on the Arsenal defender.

Man Utd 3 - 2 Arsenal

21:55 , Michael Jones

80 mins: Changes! Jesse Lingard comes on to replace Marcus Rashford with Eddie Nketiah and Alexandre Lacazette on in place of Martin Odegaard and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

Man Utd 3 - 2 Arsenal

21:54 , Michael Jones

78 mins: Save! Tomiyasu whips a cross into the box and it deflects off Fred before dropping to Martinelli. He shoots on the half-volley but scuffs the effort and it bobbles into the path of Aubameyang. He pokes it at goal but De Gea gets in behind the ball and clings on to the shot!

Man Utd 3 - 2 Arsenal

21:51 , Michael Jones

75 mins: Odegaard’s free kick is curled into the box and Lindelof is there to head it behind for an Arsenal corner. The set piece is cleared by the home side and Rashford flies down the pitch. He dribbles into the box and tries to create space to shoot. KJust as he’s about to let fly Elneny nips across and takes the ball off him.

Man Utd 3 - 2 Arsenal

21:49 , Michael Jones

72 mins: Bukayo Saka has come on to replace Emile Smith Rowe. Martinelli has moved over to the left wing with Saka positioned on the left. His first involvement wins Arsenal a free kick in a dangerous area, on the inside right just out from goal.

GOAL! Man Utd 3 - 2 Arsenal (Ronaldo, 70’)⚽️

21:46 , Michael Jones

70 mins: Ronaldo blasts the spot kick straight down the middle as Ramsdale dives to his left. He’s got two tonight and Manchester United are back in front. What a game.

Penalty to Manchester United!

21:45 , Michael Jones

Man Utd 2 - 2 Arsenal

69 mins: Martin Atkinson is called over to the monitor, he sees a replay of the incident and then points to the spot. Cristiano Ronaldo has the ball in his hands.

Man Utd 2 - 2 Arsenal

21:44 , Michael Jones

68 mins: Penalty shout! Fred makes a run into the box and Sancho feeds him the ball. Odegaard tries to win it but slides in and gets tangled with the Manchester United midfielder. Martin Atkinson says no penalty but VAR is taking a look...

Man Utd 2 - 2 Arsenal

21:43 , Michael Jones

66 mins: Fernandes attempts a chipped pass into the box for Ronaldo but Ramsdale is out quickly and plucks the ball out of the air. Bukayo Saka is getting ready on the sidelines for Arsenal.

Man Utd 2 - 2 Arsenal

21:42 , Michael Jones

63 mins: Rashford closes down Tavares and blocks his cross into the box. Man Utd to be working harder off the ball to keep Arsenal at bay.

A simple ball over the top from White comes dropping over Telles and Aubameyang is in on goal. He breezes into the box as the United left-back tries to get back into position. Aubameyang shoots from the right side but De Gea palms the effort away and Partey’s follow up is headed wide!

Man Utd 2 - 2 Arsenal

21:38 , Michael Jones

60 mins: Aubameyang releases Smith Rowe down the left wing and he flies towards the box before being caught by Dalot who wins the ball with a decent tackle.

Man Utd then attack with Fernandes. He passes it inside to Ronaldo who gives it to Sancho on the left. His cross into the box is whipped in deep but Partey is back to head it clear for the Gunners.

Man Utd 2 - 2 Arsenal

21:36 , Michael Jones

57 mins: Cristiano Ronaldo’s 800 goals broken down: 129 for Man Utd, 5 for Sporting, 450 Real Madrid, 101 Juventus, and 115 Portugal.

He gave Manchester United a 90 second lead before Martin Odegaard levelled things up.

 (Manchester United via Getty Imag)
(Manchester United via Getty Imag)

Man Utd 2 - 2 Arsenal (Odegaard, 54’)⚽️

21:31 , Michael Jones

54 mins: Arsenal are back on terms! This is almost a carbon copy of the goal United just scored. Partey with a darting pass out to Martinelli on the right side. He brings it into the box and cuts it back to Odegaard who turns it into the far bottom corner! This game is very much alive. Where will the next goal come from?

GOAL! Man Utd 2 - 1 Arsenal (Ronaldo, 52’)⚽️

21:28 , Michael Jones

52 mins: 800 goals for club and country now for Cristiano Ronaldo! This is another great goal from the home team. Rashford makes a run off the ball and Dalot slots a diagonal pass over to him. He carries it into the box before pulling it back to Ronaldo who turns the ball into the far bottom corner!

Man Utd 1 - 1 Arsenal

21:27 , Michael Jones

51 mins: Chance! Manchester United move the ball quickly and get up the pitch. It comes up to Sancho who knocks the ball across to Fred making a run up the pitch. He gives it to Fernandes who squares a pass to Rashford. He sets himself and then belts one from outside the box but smokes it straight down Ramsdale’s throat and the goalkeeper smothers the shot.

Man Utd 1 - 1 Arsenal

21:24 , Michael Jones

48 mins: Save! It’s all happening out there. Fernandes threads the ball into the right side of the box and Ronaldo brings in under control. He checks to the left and leaves Partey on the floor before hitting a shot at goal and being denied by the outstretched hand of Aaron Ramsdale!

Second half: Man Utd 1 - 1 Arsenal

21:22 , Michael Jones

Kick off: Manchester United get the match back underway and send the ball up to Ronaldo who wins the header but knocks it down to the visitors.

Arsenal sweep down the pitch and win another corner.

Save! Smith Rowe swings the ball into the box and Gabriel leaps towards it. The ball comes off the defender’s back and flies towards goal but De Gea reacts sharply and palms it wide of the back post!

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21:18 , Michael Jones

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Man Utd 1 - 1 Arsenal

21:16 , Michael Jones

Following Emile Smith Rowe’s opener Man Utd had conceded nine consecutive Premier League goals at Old Trafford without scoring themselves, their longest home league run of goals conceded without reply since November 1961.

Man Utd 1 - 1 Arsenal

21:12 , Michael Jones

At 21 years, 127 days old Emile Smith Rowe is now the second-youngest goal scorer for Arsenal in the Premier League at Old Trafford, after Nicolas Anelka in February 1999 who was 19 years & 340 days.

 (AFP via Getty Images)
(AFP via Getty Images)
 (AFP via Getty Images)
(AFP via Getty Images)

Man Utd 1 - 1 Arsenal

21:09 , Michael Jones

Bruno Fernandes is the first player to score on his 100th competitive appearance for Man Utd since Antonio Valencia vs Blackburn in April 2012.

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

Half-time: Man Utd 1 - 1 Arsenal

21:06 , Michael Jones

45+4 mins: All square at the break then. Emile Smith Rowe put the Gunners in front with a controversial goal before Bruno Fernandes equalised. The match is perfectly set up for a winning goal in the second half, but who will get it?

Man Utd 1 - 1 Arsenal

21:03 , Michael Jones

45+2 mins: Smith Rowe sends a deep corner into the box for Arsenal but it drops over the head of Partey and bounces out for a goal kick. This game is delicately poised as we approach half-time.

Man Utd 1 - 1 Arsenal

21:02 , Michael Jones

45 mins: Four minutes of added time to play at the end of the first half.

GOAL! Man Utd 1 - 1 Arsenal (Fernandes, 44’)⚽️

20:59 , Michael Jones

44 mins: Manchester United are level! Game on. This is a lovely goal from the home side. Maguire knocks the ball out to Sancho on the left wing as Fred makes a run in between two Arsenal defenders to get into the box. He receives the ball and back heels it to the arriving Bruno Fernandes who ends his goal drought with a well guided finish past Ramsdale!

Man Utd 0 - 1 Arsenal

20:58 , Michael Jones

42 mins: Danger! Fred brings down Partey just outside the United penalty area. The free kick is bang in front of goal around 25-yards out. There’s a cluster of Arsenal players around the ball wanting a shot at the free kick. Odegaard and Partey are the last two standing and it’s Partey who hits the shot. Odegaard jumps over the ball in a dummy before Partey’s strikes loops up off Aubameyang and drops safely in the hands of De Gea.

Man Utd 0 - 1 Arsenal

20:54 , Michael Jones

39 mins: Harry Maguire has another effort from outside the box and sends it into the hands of Ramsdale. The Manchester United captain seems up for this one tonight.

Arsenal get the ball down the other end of the pitch and win a throw in when Telles sends the ball out of play. The throw comes to Martin Odegaard who controls it brilliantly and spins towards the box before slipping Martinelli the ball. He looks to shoot but scuffs his effort and the ball goes wide of the near post.

Man Utd 0 - 1 Arsenal

20:51 , Michael Jones

36 mins: Penalty shout from United. They work the ball inside from the left and Fred knocks a dainty pass into the box for Telles. He tries to roll the ball onto his left foot to strike a shot at goal but Ben White lunges in and wins the ball with a perfectly timed challenge. Telles goes down and wants a penalty but the referee waves for play to go on.

Man Utd 0 - 1 Arsenal

20:49 , Michael Jones

33 mins: Maguire sends a nice diagonal ball across to Rashford on the right side. He brings it under control and lays a pass off to Ronaldo. Ronaldo gives it to Fernandes who sends another through ball into the box expecting a run from Ronaldo that doesn’t come. Both players look at each other in resigned confusion as the ball trickles out for a goal kick.

Man Utd 0 - 1 Arsenal

20:46 , Michael Jones

30 mins: Harry Maguire pushes up the pitch and receives a pass in the inside left channel. He boots a long-ranged effort at goal and strikes his shot well but the ball continues to rise and just heads over the crossbar.

Man Utd 0 - 1 Arsenal

20:43 , Michael Jones

27 mins: Fernandes slides a through ball into the right side of the box as Rashford attempts an overlapping run but can’t get around Nuno Tavares who beats him to the ball and sends it out for a corner.

Telles swings the set piece into the box towards Maguire but Ramsdale gets a hand to it and tips it over the crossbar.

Man Utd 0 - 1 Arsenal

20:42 , Michael Jones

24 mins: Rashford and Sancho have switched sides for Man Utd with Rashford now playing on the right. He has a cross headed out of the box but the home side regain the ball. This has been a good period for them, Arsenal are being pushed deeper and deeper trying to keep them out.

Man Utd 0 - 1 Arsenal

20:39 , Michael Jones

21 mins: What a strange incident to lead to the opening goal. Manchester United are trailing once again at Old Trafford but they’ve stepped up a gear since going behind. Rashford wins a throw on the left wing and it’s sent into the middle. A square apss comes to Ronaldo who plays Dalot into the right side of the box. He can shoot but instead pulls it back into the centre of the box but Gabriel is there and boots it clear.

Man Utd 0 - 1 Arsenal

20:35 , Michael Jones

19 mins: After that bizarre period of play the match resumes with Cristiano Ronaldo weaving down the left wing. He shimmies away from Takehiro Tomiyasu and cuts inside before letting fly on a low shot from the front edge of the box. Ramsdale dives across to cover the near post and smothers the ball.

GOAL! Man Utd 0 - 1 Arsenal (Smith Rowe, 13’)⚽️

20:33 , Michael Jones

16 mins: It’s a goal! Martin Atkinson has no choice but to give the goal as play continued after De Gea’s knock. The Manchester United goalkeeper is back on his feet and will play on but Arsenal are in front.

Man Utd 0 - 0 Arsenal

20:31 , Michael Jones

13 mins: Is this a goal?! Quite possibly. Arsenal win a corner that gets whipped into the box. Fred stands on David De Gea’s ankle and the United goalkeeper collapses to the floor. Maguire heads the ball out to Elneny who lays it off to Smith Rowe. He hits one from outside the box and scores whilst De Gea is still laying on the floor.

No goal has been given as of yet, we’ll see what the referee decides...

Man Utd 0 - 0 Arsenal

20:27 , Michael Jones

12 mins: Chance for Ronaldo! Fred presses up against Partey in the middle of the pitch and wins the ball. He prods it up to Ronaldo who spins and hits one from range only to pull it well wide of the right-hand post.

Man Utd 0 - 0 Arsenal

20:26 , Michael Jones

11 mins: Chance! Partey skips around McTominay in the middle of the pitch and links well with Emile Smith Rowe who’s drifted inside from the left wing. He receives the ball, turns towards goal and slots it into the feet of Aubameyang. The Arsenal captain shifts the ball away from Lindelof and hits a soft effort at goal but David De Gea dives low to his left and keeps it out.

Man Utd 0 - 0 Arsenal

20:24 , Michael Jones

8 mins: Fred loses the ball to Thomas Partey who drives towards the box but lose control of the ball and allows Victor Lindelof to clear. The midfield battle between Partey and Mohamed Elneny against Scott McTominay and Fred is interesting. Arsenal are probably having the better of it so far.

United sweep up the pitch and work the ball out to Diogo Dalot on the right wing. He cuts inside and hits a left-footed shot but only sends it straight at Aaron Ramsdale in Arsenal’s goal.

Man Utd 0 - 0 Arsenal

20:20 , Michael Jones

5 mins: Man Utd have to deal with three consecutive corners but manage to keep Arsenal out. Marcus Rashford makes a goalline clearance to deny Martin Odegaard before Maguire heads the third set piece away and sends Bruno Fernandes flying forward on the conuter-attack. Sancho is up with him and receives the ball. He works it over to the left wing but is met with Arsenal defenders and forced to pass it back to Fernandes. He sends a quick cross into the box but can’t find a teammate and the Gunners work the ball clear.

Man Utd 0 - 0 Arsenal

20:17 , Michael Jones

2 mins: Chance! Manchester United win the ball from the throw in but Jadon Sancho gives it away with a loose pass into his own box. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang intercepts the pass and hits one at goal but Harry Maguire gets in front of the shot and blocks it out for a corner.

Man Utd 0 - 0 Arsenal

20:16 , Michael Jones

Kick off: After both knees take the knee to applause from the crowd the Gunners kick off the match. The ball is sent long down the right side and Alex Telles heads it out for an Arsenal throw in.

Man Utd vs Arsenal

20:12 , Michael Jones

Here come the teams. This one should be a cracker. Old Trafford is packed and both these teams will want to win.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang leads out the visitors to a chorus of boos from the Manchester United fans before Harry Maguire walks out the home team.

Man Utd vs Arsenal: Gary Neville warns Ralf Rangnick of Manchester United’s ‘disjointed and disconnected’ squad

20:07 , Michael Jones

Gary Neville has warned Manchester United’s new interim manager, Ralf Rangnick, that he is inheriting a “disconnected and “disjointed” squad.

Rangnick was granted a work permit on Thursday but will watch United’s Premier League fixture against Arsenal from the stands at Old Trafford, having not yet had the chance to properly work with his players.

Neville said his dream scenario for the remainder of the season would be a top-four finish and victory in the FA Cup, but is under no illusions over the task Rangnick faces to coax the best out of United’s current squad.

Gary Neville warns Ralf Rangnick of Manchester United’s ‘disconnected’ squad

Man Utd vs Arsenal: Aubameyang to score tonight?

20:03 , Michael Jones

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang could become the first Arsenal player to score in three consecutive away appearances against the Red Devils if he finds the back of the net tonight.

 (AFP via Getty Images)
(AFP via Getty Images)

Man Utd vs Arsenal: Arteta vs United

19:59 , Michael Jones

Since re-joining the club in 2019 Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal haven’t lost to Manchester United in the Premier League and won this fixture at Old Trafford last season. Speaking about how he prepares for the game Arteta said:

The confidence that we have to prepare the matches to win, and we first of all have to respect the opponent that we will have in front of us, but with the end goal, the mindset, the confidence, the desire to win the game and have that belief straight away.“

Man Utd vs Arsenal: Unwanted records

19:54 , Michael Jones

Manchester United can lose three consecutive top-flight home matches without scoring for the first time since 1963 if they lose to Arsenal tonight.

United recorded a league-low 17 shots in November, while they have faced an unrivalled 60.

Man Utd vs Arsenal: Carrick on Arteta

19:51 , Michael Jones

Man Utd caretaker boss, Michael Carrick, spoke about his playing rivalry with Mikel Arteta and how the Arsenal coach has adapted to his role as a coach. Carrick said:

He was a terrific player, very technical, and that’s the way his teams plays and obviously the way he has coached them in that style shows what type of player he was.

“I think he’s done a very good job at Arsenal and you can see they’re going in a certain direction and been pretty strong with that. So credit to him for that and it’ll be interesting to see how they get on for the rest of the season.”

Man Utd vs Arsenal: Arteta on Martinelli

19:45 , Michael Jones

The Arsenal fans have been wanting to see more of Gabriel Martinelli since he’s recovered from injury and they’ll get their chance tonight. Speaking of Martinelli’s lack of game time, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said:

It’s part of the pathway. I understand that we want to play all the players, but we can only play 11 of them.

“We have such a young team and we have to find the right pathway with the right timing within the pathway because it can look in a different different way and I think it’s very clear what we want to do with Gabi [Martinelli].

“His determination is absolutely top and he will continue to do that. He has the capacity to start games, no doubt about it.”

Man Utd vs Arsenal: Leaky devils

19:40 , Michael Jones

Manchester United have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last 14 home fixtures in all competitions, the second-longest run in their history following a sequence of 21 matches between April 1958 and March 1959.

If they go 1-0 down on Thursday, it will mark the first time United have conceded nine successive Premier League goals without reply at Old Trafford.

Man Utd vs Arsenal: 'Football needs to be very careful with player workloads’ says Arteta

19:36 , Michael Jones

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has joined Marcelo Bielsa in expressing concern over the fixture calendar and insisted football needs to be careful over the load being put on players.

Leeds boss Bielsa admitted earlier this week to having “serious doubts” over the future of the sport at the elite level due to the amount of games being played.

Arsenal will play eight times in December, beginning at Manchester United on Thursday, and Arteta says there is reason to be cautious about overworking players.

Mikel Arteta: Football needs to be very careful with player workloads

Man Utd vs Arsenal: Flying Gunners

19:31 , Michael Jones

Arsenal have won seven times in their last 10 league games with two draws and just one defeat. The Gunners are unbeaten in all eight league fixtures in which they’ve scored this season.

But, only Norwich City have scored fewer Premier League away goals than Arsenal’s three, while the Gunners have failed to score in a joint-club record four of their opening six league games on the road.

Man Utd vs Arsenal: United struggles

19:27 , Michael Jones

Manchester United have won just once in eight Premier League matches with two draws and five defeats.

Their tally of five points during that period is their fewest over an eight-game spell since recording four between December 1989 and February 1990.

And, they could lose seven home fixtures in a calendar year for the first time since 1986 if the Gunners are triumphant tonight.

Man Utd vs Arsenal: Cristiano Ronaldo backed to adapt to Ralf Rangnick’s style at Manchester United

19:24 , Michael Jones

Michael Carrick has no doubt Cristiano Ronaldo will thrive under Ralf Rangnick at Manchester United

There has been debate over how five-times world player of the year Ronaldo will fit into Rangnick’s tactical plans at Old Trafford, particularly with the German likely to implement a pressing style.

Rangnick was confirmed as United’s interim manager until the end of the season this week, although, with the former Leipzig boss awaiting a work permit, Carrick remains in caretaker charge for Thursday’s visit of Arsenal.

Cristiano Ronaldo backed to adapt to Ralf Rangnick’s style at Manchester United

Man Utd vs Arsenal: Team changes

19:21 , Michael Jones

Manchester United make three changes to the team that drew 1-1 at Chelsea last weekend. Cristiano Ronaldo returns to bolster the forward line with Nemanja Matic dropping out leaving Scott McTominay and Fred as a holding midfield duo.

Harry Maguire replaces Eric Bailly and Diogo Dalot is in for Aaron Wan-Bissaka in two changes to the defensive line.

Mikel Arteta makes two changes for Arsenal. Gabriel Martinelli starts in place of Bukayo Saka in attack, while Mohamed Elneny comes into midfield for Albert Sambi Lokonga.

Saka and Lokonga both start on the bench.

Man Utd vs Arsenal: Line-ups

19:17 , Michael Jones

Man Utd XI: De Gea, Dalot, Lindelof, Maguire, Telles, McTominay, Fred, Sancho, Fernandes, Rashford, Ronaldo

Arsenal XI: Ramsdale, Tomiyasu, White, Gabriel, Tavares, Elneny, Partey, Martinelli, Odegaard, Smith Rowe, Aubameyang

Ma Utd vs Arsenal: Arteta on Tavares and Tierney

19:10 , Michael Jones

Mikel Arteta shocked most people when he named Nuno Tavares in Arsenal’s starting XI against Newcastle ahead of number one left-back Kieran Tierney but his faith in the 21-year-old was rewarded with a strong performance against the Magpies.

Speaking about why he went for Taveres over Tierney, Arteta said:

It was a tricky one and after what happened at Anfield and some individual errors that we had, we have to be very careful with the messages that we send to our players,

"I encourage my players to play with courage, to take risks, to make decisions and to be on the front foot and when they do that, if for any reason things don’t go our way or somebody makes a mistake, that’s when you have to show trust in the player because you want to build confidence and resilience.

"It’s not only for the player that’s playing, it’s also for the player that’s not playing to understand that part of that decision is to support and in their case, if it happens to them, I will do exactly the same thing.

"It’s something that we have to build and with young players even more, because if not, they can get very confused. I have full confidence in him [Tavares]."

It will be interesting to see who Arteta goes for tonight. Will he stick with Tavares or will Tierney get a recall? The team news is expected shortly.

Man Utd vs Arsenal: Head-to-head

19:05 , Michael Jones

Manchester United could go seven Premier League games without beating Arsenal for the first time in their history and Arsenal can win consecutive league games at Old Trafford for the first time since February 1979.

The Gunners would set a new club record by keeping a fourth consecutive clean sheet in this fixture if Manchester United fial to score. Arsenal’s last six league away wins versus Manchester United were all by a 1-0 scoreline.

Man Utd vs Arsenal: Arsenal defender Gabriel fended off baseball bat-wielding thug at his home

18:59 , Michael Jones

Arsenal star Gabriel fought off a baseball bat-wielding thug who attempted to steal his car.

Gabriel Magalhaes, known as Gabriel, had just returned to his home in Barnet, north London, when he was approached by three men as he got out of his car on August 20th.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta recently spoke about the incident saying that you have to “give credit” to Gabriel for how he handled the situation:

Arsenal defender Gabriel fended off baseball bat-wielding thug at his home

Man Utd vs Arsenal: Arteta on what he expects from Man Utd

18:55 , Michael Jones

Mikel Arteta was asked how he prepared his Arsenal team for tonight’s trip to Old Trafford with all the changes and uncertainty happening at Manchester United and he admitted it was difficult to from a tactical perspective. He said:

You know what to expect when you got to that stadium and play in front of that crowd. They are a team, a squad that is one of the most talented in the league.

“You know the situation you are going to face. It is very difficult tactically because you don’t know how they are going to prepare the game, the options that they can play, the formation they can [have] so it’s focused more on ourselves, on what we have to do and make sure the team is prepared to go there and beat them.”

Man Utd vs Arsenal: Carrick on taking charge at Old Trafford

18:51 , Michael Jones

Michael Carrick’s short time as caretaker manager of Manchester United comes to an end this evening but not before he’s had the chance to lead the team at Old Trafford against Arsenal.

When asked how it felt to be leading the team in a home fixture Carrick said he was trying to ‘not get carried away’ with it all and was looking forward to taking on the Gunners. He said:

It’s obviously a huge privilege and one I never imagined would actually happen at any stage. So to be in that position is a huge sense of pride and responsibility, of course.

“You know, I’m a fan and my family are just supporters of Manchester United anyway, so to be in that seat will be a good feeling. I still keep going back to I can’t hide the fact I am here because of the situation with Ole so I’m not getting carried away with at all.

“I’ll try to make the most of it tomorrow night but actually it’s about the players, the team and getting the right result.

“There have been some classics [Man Utd vs Arsenal games] over the years. I’ve been involved in some and watched from afar before I even got here.

“There’s always been a special feeling around this game and an edge around the fixture. The boys are looking forward to it, we’re looking forward to it, these are the big games you want to be involved in, and obviously we’re trying to come out on top.”

Man Utd vs Arsenal: Ralf Rangnick granted work permit to start as Manchester United interim manager

18:45 , Michael Jones

Ralf Rangnick has been granted a work permit to begin working as Manchester United’s new interim manager.

The 63-year-old’s appointment as the temporary successor to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was confirmed on Monday subject to visa requirements.

As part of post-Brexit immigration regulations, Rangnick had to apply for and receive a Governing Body Endorsement (GBE) before taking over at Old Trafford.

Ralf Rangnick granted work permit to start as Manchester United’s interim manager

Man Utd vs Arsenal: Recent results

18:41 , Michael Jones

Manchester United have somewhat steadied the ship since Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s sacking with one win and one draw under caretaker boss Michael Carrick. That victory came against Villarreal in the Champions League and sent the Red Devils into the last-16. They followed it up with a 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge against Premier League leaders Chelsea last time out. United have appointed Ralf Rangnick as their new interim coach but Carrick will be in the dugout against Arsenal this evening and will be hoping to remain undefeated during his run in charge.

Arsenal meanwhile are flying up the league table. They are just one point behind West Ham and can move into the top four with a victory at Old Trafford this evening. Mikel Arteta’s side were unbeaten in 10 matches but suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat to Liverpool on 20th November. They bounced-back last time out with a professional 2-0 victory over Newcastle leaving them in good form and on the verge of the top four.

Man Utd vs Arsenal: Early team news

18:37 , Michael Jones

Manchester United captain Harry Maguire returns after serving a one-game suspension but Luke Shaw will continue to be assessed following a head injury that has kept him out of the last two games whilst Paul Pogba, Edinson Cavani and Raphael Varane are still sidelined.

Granit Xhaka and Sead Kolasinac are both absent for Arsenal but Bukayo Saka may be available after he was forced off during the Newcastle game. He will undergo a fitness before the match to see if he has recovered from a muscle injury.

Manchester United host Arsenal as Rangnick watches on

15:05 , Tom Kershaw

Welcome to The Independent’s live coverage as Manchester United host Arsenal in the Premier League this evening.

Ralf Rangnick was granted a work permit on Thursday morning but will watch tonight’s match from the stands rather than the dugout, having not yet had the chance to work with his new squad. That means Michael Carrick will take charge of a third and final game as caretaker manager, having done no disservice to his reputation whatsoever with victory against Villarreal and a draw at Chelsea.

Arsenal will provide a difficult test too, though, with Mikel Arteta’s side having won four of their last five top-flight games. The Gunners can move into the top four with a victory, although they may have to make do without Bukayo Saka, who limped off after an hour of Arsenal’s match against Newcastle last weekend.