Man Utd vs Arsenal tips and predictions: Fernandes and Saka to trade blows in Old Trafford opener

Manchester United state of play

Manchester United are hoping a new-look attack ensures they avoid a repeat of last season's wretched campaign. 

The Red Devils limped to 15th place, their worst-ever Premier League finish. So this summer, nearly £200million has been spent on Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha to help fire them back into European contention. 

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Ruben Amorim failed to stop the rot after taking over from Erik ten Hag and will be under pressure to deliver the goods after being backed in the market. 

What better way to mark a new era than beating one of your great rivals? 

Arsenal state of play

After hitting the post in the last three seasons, Arsenal can have little in the way of excuses if they fail to land the top prize this term.

Their statistics have long felt like the Gunners' lack of a proper striker has hindered their title hopes, but Mikel Arteta finally has his man after signing Swedish hotshot Viktor Gyokeres.

Kepa Arrizabalaga, Noni Madueke, Cristhian Mosquera, Christian Norgaard and Martin Zubimendi have also moved to north London to give Arsenal the feel of a refreshed squad. 

A statement victory at Old Trafford would be the perfect start to their title tilt. 

Key talking point: Can Arsenal capitalise on United's home problems?

Old Trafford was hardly a fortress last season as United suffered seven defeats in 13 home league games under Amorim.

They struggled to keep the ball out of the net, conceding 21 goals in that period, and their recruitment suggests outscoring the opposition might be their plan. 

It's unlikely all their problems have been solved over the summer and welcoming a team that has genuine title ambitions represents a stiff test.

Read: Manchester United vs Arsenal full betting tips and predictions

Arsenal lost just twice away from home in the Premier League last term, but occasionally failed to convert draws into victories. 

This fixture was a perfect example as the Gunners were held to a 1-1 stalemate. 

Whether Gyokeres makes the difference remains to be seen, but Arteta's squad looks stable and ready to hit the ground running. 

FIRST's top tip for Manchester United vs Arsenal

Pick: Double chance & both teams to score - draw or Arsenal & yes - 6/5 (Betway)

United's new attack has the class to breach Arsenal's defence, but the visitors look solid to bag at least a point. 

The selection landed in last season's fixture.

Extra tips

Pick: Bruno Fernandes to score or assist - 2/1 (Betway)

The Portuguese midfielder managed eight goals, including one in this fixture, and 11 assists in 36 league appearances last term

He should improve those numbers as he'll be linking up with a much-improved attack. 

Pick: Bukayo Saka to score or assist - 23/20 (Betway)

As well as being a threat in his own right, Arsenal's wing wonder created 11 goals in 25 appearances last season and should benefit from having Gyokeres to target.

The selection landed in five of Saka's 10 appearances against United. 

Team news

Andre Onana has returned to training after missing pre-season, but Altay Bayindir could continue in goal. 

Lisandro Martinez, Noussair Mazraoui and Joshua Zirkzee are set to miss out through injury. 

Leandro Trossard might be available for Arsenal after missing the Athletic Club friendly with a groin problem, but Gabriel Jesus is a long-term absentee. 

Manchester United vs Arsenal predicted line-ups

Manchester United: Bayindir; De Ligt, Yoro, Shaw; Amad, Fernandes, Casemiro, Dorgu; Mbeumo, Cunha; Sesko

Arsenal: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Rice, Zubimendi; Saka, Odegaard, Martinelli; Gyokeres

Form guide (including friendlies)

Manchester United: LLWLWDWWDD

Arsenal: LLDWWWWLLW

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Odds correct at the time of writing.