(4-2-3-1) Calafiori debut, William Saliba to start”, Arsenal XI to face Manchester United – As Arteta set to test some crucial players in their new position.
Arsenal and Manchester United are set to face each other in a pre-season friendly as they prepare for the upcoming Premier League season. The match is scheduled for Sunday at 1 AM UK time.
### Arsenal’s Pre-Season Plans
Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal will play three games in the United States before returning to London. The Gunners are looking to build on a strong previous season, where they finished second to Manchester City in the Premier League title race.
### Manchester United’s Pre-Season Plans
Manchester United, led by Erik ten Hag, also have three fixtures lined up in the USA. The team aims to continue their positive momentum after securing a Europa League spot by winning the FA Cup against Manchester City.
### Team News and Injuries
Arsenal will be without right-back Takehiro Tomiyasu, who is missing the tour due to a knee injury. The extent of his injury is still unknown, putting his availability for the start of the new season in doubt. Other key players like Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, Aaron Ramsdale, David Raya, and William Saliba are not part of the 26-man squad, as they are resting after their Euro 2024 commitments. However, Gabriel, Gabriel Martinelli, and Kai Havertz are expected to join the team before this match. Additionally, left-back Kieran Tierney is sidelined with a hamstring injury.
On the other hand, Manchester United’s manager Erik ten Hag was initially without five key players for a recent match against Rangers. However, Anthony, Marcus Rashford, Harry Maguire, Scott McTominay, and Victor Lindelof have since returned to training ahead of their USA tour.
### Predicted Lineups
Arsenal is expected to line up in a 4-3-3 formation with Hein in goal; White, Timber, Kiwior, and Zinchenko in defense; Odegaard, Partey, and Smith Rowe in midfield; and Vieira, Nketiah, and Jesus in the attack.
Manchester United is likely to go with a 4-2-3-1 setup, featuring Onana in goal; Ogunneye, Fish, Evans, and Amass in defense; Casemiro, Mount, and McTominay in midfield; and Antony, Wheatley, and Rashford up front.
This friendly match will be a crucial test for both teams as they finalize their preparations for the new season, providing an opportunity to assess new signings and tactical adjustments.