Arsenal vs Manchester United tips and predictions: More cup misery for the Gunners?

Arsenal state of play

The Gunners' 13-game unbeaten run (W9 D4) came to a halt with a surprising 2-0 defeat to Newcastle in midweek. They can still make amends in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg, but it was an alarming result at the Emirates Stadium given the strength of Mikel Arteta's line-up.

It's the first time they've blanked since their goalless draw with Everton on 14 December. Gabriel Jesus had started every game in their scoring run since but was rested against Newcastle. The Brazilian is in red-hot form with six goals from six and will be well rested for the visit of United.

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Arteta already has the blueprint to beat Ruben Amorim's side having comfortably beaten them 2-0 in north London just last month.

Manchester United state of play

United stopped the rot of four straight defeats with a 2-2 draw away at their old foes Liverpool. They perhaps should've won it in the final seconds when Harry Maguire missed the target from eight yards out, but it was a huge point for the Red Devils nonetheless.

They haven't shown that fighting spirit since their last win over cross-city rivals Manchester City in mid-December. And they'll need it again to end a horrific run of seven games without a win at the Emirates (D1 L6).

Their last away win against Arsenal? Six years ago. In the FA Cup.

Key talking point: Can Manchester United roll back the years and win away at Arsenal?

United's gritty performance against Liverpool last weekend will give Amorim hope his side can make this a competitive match. The Portuguese manager can go full strength with Southampton up next, while Arteta's focus may be split with a north London derby just three days after.

The Red Devils had to beat the likes of Liverpool and Manchester City on their way to FA Cup glory last season, prioritising the cup to secure European football. I'm expecting them to dig deep and keep this tight like they did against Liverpool and City and at least force extra time against the Gunners. 

FIRST’s top tip for Arsenal vs Manchester United

Manchester United double chance at 11/10 with BetMGM

Extra tips

Amad Diallo to score last at 8/1 with Betway 

Diallo has a habit of delivering in key moments, scoring the deciding goals against Liverpool and City. He's a huge 8/1 to do the same again at Arsenal.

Lisandro Martinez to be booked at 11/4 with Skybet 

No United player has been booked more times than Martinez (7) this season. At 11/4, he's a strong candidate to see yellow in what’s likely to be a feisty encounter.

Team news

Raheem Sterling, who returned to the matchday squad against Newcastle, could be in contention for a starting spot with Bukayo Saka and Ethan Nwaneri still out injured. Arteta may want to give a rest to one of Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard on the flanks.

Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu remain out of action for the Gunners.

Marcus Rashford missed the Liverpool clash due to illness but is unlikely to start even if he does recover in time with his future uncertain.

Luke Shaw and Victor Lindelof are nearing fitness but may not return in time. Mason Mount is definitely out with a thigh complaint.

Arsenal vs Manchester United predicted line-ups

Arsenal XI: Raya; Timber, Gabriel, Saliba, Lewis-Skelly; Merino, Jorginho, Odegaard; Trossard, Sterling, Jesus (4-3-3)

Man United XI: Onana; Yoro, Maguire, Martinez; Mazraoui, Mainoo, Ugarte, Dalot; Amad, Fernandes; Hojlund (3-4-2-1)

Form guide (all competitions)

Arsenal: WDWDWWWWDL

Man United: WLLWWLLLLD

Odds correct at the time of writing.