United Beyond Manchester

For the first time since 1989, Manchester United will open a top-flight campaign against Arsenal. Last season’s runners-up come to Old Trafford ready to compete for a title, while the Reds will look for a positive start in Ruben Amorim’s first full season.

Team News

Andre Onana has returned to training ahead of the bout with Arsenal after missing the pre-season tour with a hamstring issue. While Altay Bayindir and Tom Heaton played in those matches, Onana is expected to start the opening game between the sticks.

United enter the season with just two injury concerns, both affecting the back three. Noussair Mazraoui and Lisandro Martínez remain sidelined, but Amorim still has plenty of defensive options at his disposal. Leny Yoro impressed throughout the pre-season and is expected to line up alongside Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw. While Ayden Heaven provides another option at left center back, Shaw’s experience makes him the likely choice for such a high-stakes opener.

Amad Diallo could start ahead of Diogo Dalot at right wing back. The 23-year-old has emerged as a key figure under Amorim and, with the arrival of new attacking signings, is set to move into a wider role. On the other wing, Patrick Dorgu is set to begin his first full season as a Red and will start with new signing Diego Leon as his backup. Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte are likely to round out the midfield four.

In the attack, new stars Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko will make their competitive debuts. Cunha and Mbeumo are sure to start, but Sesko could be limited in his debut after only arriving on August 9. If Sesko does not make the eleven, Rasmus Hojlund, Mason Mount, or recently returned Joshua Zirkzee could receive an opportunity to start.

Predicted Lineup

Goalkeeper: Andre Onana

Defenders: Leny Yoro, Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw

Midfielders: Amad Diallo, Manuel Ugarte, Bruno Fernandes, Patrick Dorgu

Attackers: Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko