Welcome to the Premier League Roundup! In the highlight match of Matchday 28, Manchester United and Arsenal played out a 1-1 draw. This game was arguably United’s best performance in the last two months, showcasing two major positives but also revealing a lingering concern.
Positive 1: Tactical Identity Taking Shape
Manchester United’s tactical system is becoming more refined. In attack, they adopted a 3-4-3 formation, seamlessly transitioning to a 5-4-1 when defending. This fluidity has allowed them to play to their strengths while minimizing the risk of further injuries (10 first-team players are currently sidelined). The wing-backs played a crucial role, dropping back to protect the flanks in defense and surging forward to support counterattacks. Joshua Zirkzee’s ability to hold up the ball and link play, combined with Alejandro Garnacho’s pace, created constant problems for Arsenal’s defense.
Positive 2: The Midfield Trio Shines
The trio of 30-year-old Bruno Fernandes, 33-year-old Casemiro, and Christian Eriksen started together and demonstrated excellent chemistry. Fernandes operated as a central midfielder alongside Casemiro, while Eriksen drifted to the left. Eriksen’s passing range was on full display, whether it was delivering dangerous balls to Diogo Dalot or linking up with Garnacho. Defensively, he also provided solid cover on the flanks. Casemiro, who played the full 90 minutes, was a rock in front of the defense, breaking up play and initiating counterattacks with his precise passing. Fernandes once again proved his irreplaceable role in attack, scoring two direct free-kick goals in the last three league games. His vision and passing accuracy were central to United’s counterattacking threat. The defensive approach also helped the veteran midfielders conserve energy, ensuring they could maintain their form.
Concern: Managing Garnacho’s Workload
Garnacho was United’s standout performer, causing constant problems with his dribbling and crosses from central and wide areas. Whether it was Riccardo Calafiori, Myles Lewis-Skelly, or Gabriel, no one could contain him. Garnacho’s relentless energy and stamina were impressive, but with Amad Diallo still injured, he remains United’s only true attacking outlet on the flanks. As the team competes on two fronts, manager Rúben Amorim must manage Garnacho’s minutes carefully to avoid burnout.
Arsenal’s Struggles: The Persistent Goal-Scoring Problem
For Arsenal, the only positive from this draw was extending their unbeaten run in “Big Six” clashes to 19 games over the past two years. However, with just one goal in their last three matches, they have fallen further behind Liverpool and risk finishing as runners-up for the third consecutive season—a feat not seen since the 1999-2001 campaigns. Their lack of firepower remains a glaring issue, as they have failed to replicate the goal-scoring form that propelled them in the second half of the last two seasons.
Gabriel Martinelli’s return from injury was a rare bright spot. His introduction off the bench injected life into Arsenal’s right flank, helping Jurriën Timber and Declan Rice combine for the equalizer. However, the euphoria of their 7-1 midweek win over PSV Eindhoven seemed to affect their focus. Despite improving in the second half with substitutions and increased tempo, Arsenal’s defense was repeatedly exposed by United’s counterattacks. Were it not for David Raya’s three crucial saves, Arsenal might have lost the game.
Looking Ahead
For Arsenal, the focus over the next two months may shift to the Champions League. After advancing to the quarterfinals, they will face a tough opponent from Madrid. The good news is that Bukayo Saka is expected to return after the international break. Compared to Manchester City, Arsenal’s movement between the lines and tactical variety make them more adept at breaking down compact defenses. However, if they are to make a deep run in Europe, they must sharpen their counterattacking play.
Conclusion
Manchester United’s performance against Arsenal offered glimpses of progress, particularly in their tactical setup and midfield cohesion. However, the over-reliance on Garnacho remains a concern. For Arsenal, the draw highlighted their ongoing struggles in front of goal, casting doubt on their ability to challenge for the title. As the season enters its final stretch, both teams face critical decisions that could shape their futures.