Michael Carrick's Manchester United relishing Arsenal challenge

Having begun his second interim period with the most emphatic of displays in the Manchester derby, Michael Carrick’s reinvigorated United must now tackle a formidable Arsenal outfit in their own backyard.

The travelling Reds have not enjoyed many trips to London in recent years, losing in each of the four previous Premier League encounters at the Emirates.

That said, Ruben Amorim’s side sealed a memorable FA Cup victory when the pair last locked horns at the ground, and few gave them much chance on that particular day also.

Despite inconsistency ravaging large portions of a Jekyll and Hyde campaign, three points could propel United into the Champions League places, further enhancing the growing support for Carrick in the North West.

Regardless, like so many high-profile fixtures in England, form will count for nothing when Craig Pawson blows his whistle at 16:30 on Sunday for the 245th installation of this famous rivalry.

Manchester United Team News

Victory against Pep Guardiola intensified a growing belief in the capabilities of this squad, with a large contingent of the supporter base feeling underwhelmed with many individual displays.

Nonetheless, with Bruno Fernandes returning to his familiar high-lying position alongside the combination of Bryan Mbeumo and Amad on the right flank, confidence is building within the ranks.

In Mikel Arteta, Carrick will face another young and hungry tactician who has spent years cultivating his beliefs in North London with a squad assembled in his image.

Although many are tipping the Gunners to prevail domestically and on the continent, United’s interim chief is relishing the challenge ahead.

“The boys came through it really well [last weekend] – it was big, there’s no getting away from it, an emotional day, physically and mentally, and a big lift, Carrick told MUTV.

“In terms of the levels, it was huge, but the boys came through it really well. They had a day or two to rest but trained really hard and well for a couple of days, and freshed up for the game, so we’re in a good place.

“We’re looking forward to a real challenge, one for us we’re going down to face head-on.”

Kobbie Mainoo remains committed to Manchester United

Despite enjoying a four-point lead at the top of the table, consecutive 0-0 draws have raised concerns in London with an inability to pounce on their rivals’ failings.

But that hasn’t halted pre-match conversation regarding the quality of this Arsenal side; with comparisons being made, albeit bizarrely, with the all-conquering United team of 2008.

Far be it from me to diminish a media love affair with a club that hasn’t tasted meaningful silverware since 2020, but the likes of Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo deserve better.

Say what you will about the ongoing turmoil at M16, but Arteta will know he was fortunate to escape Old Trafford with anything in August.

Predicted Manchester United starting XI: (4-2-3-1): Lammens; Dalot, Maguire, Martinez, Shaw; Casemiro, Mainoo; Amad, Bruno, Mbeumo; Sesko.

How are you feeling ahead of the latest chapter between Manchester United and Arsenal? Let us know in the comments or across our socials.

Photo by Mark Cosgrove/News Images via depositphotos.com.