Arsenal are set to host Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday, 4th December 2024, in what promises to be a significant fixture in the Premier League calendar. The Gunners currently sit fourth in the league standings with 22 points, while United are in twelfth place with 16 points. This match offers Arsenal a chance to consolidate their position among the top teams, while Manchester United will be eager to climb up the table and close the gap.

Both teams have had contrasting fortunes this season. Arsenal have exhibited a solid form, particularly at home, where they have remained unbeaten with four wins and two draws out of six matches. They have averaged 1.75 goals per game and have shown an attacking flair, with players like Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli contributing significantly. Saka, in particular, has been influential, averaging 3.36 shots per game and providing consistent threat down the wing. Manchester United, on the other hand, have struggled to find consistency. With only one win in their six away games, they have amassed six points on the road. Their goal-scoring has been modest, averaging 1.08 goals per game. Marcus Rashford has been a key player for United, but his two goals this season indicate that he may not be at his most prolific. Alejandro Garnacho has emerged as an important figure, scoring three goals and averaging 2.75 shots per game, offering some hope for United's attacking prospects. Defensively, Arsenal have conceded an average of one goal per game, showcasing a relatively strong backline. However, the injury to Ben White, who is out with a knee injury until late January, could impact their defensive stability. White's absence means that Arsenal will rely heavily on players like Gabriel Magalhães and William Saliba to maintain their defensive record. Saliba has been consistent, playing 84.5 minutes per game and engaging in 6.72 duels per game, winning a significant portion of them. Manchester United's defence has had its challenges, conceding an average of 1.08 goals per game. Injuries to key defenders such as Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof have forced changes in their backline. The partnership between Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martínez will be crucial. De Ligt has shown competence, averaging 7.09 duels per game and contributing to the defensive efforts. Goalkeeper André Onana has been a steady presence, making crucial saves and maintaining concentration under pressure. Midfield battles could be decisive in this fixture. Arsenal's Thomas Partey has been instrumental in controlling the midfield, with an average of 56 passes per game and a pass accuracy of over 90%. His ability to break up play and initiate attacks adds depth to Arsenal's gameplay. For Manchester United, Casemiro's experience is vital. He averages 58.28 passes per game and contributes defensively with 12.2 duels per game. However, his discipline has been questioned, as he averages 0.15 yellow cards per game. Historical encounters between these two teams have been intense. In their last ten head-to-head matches, Arsenal have the upper hand with six wins, while Manchester United have won two, and two have ended in draws. The average goals per game across these fixtures stand at 2.8, indicating that goals can be expected when these sides meet. Set-pieces may play a pivotal role. Arsenal have shown vulnerability in defending set-pieces, as seen in recent matches where they conceded goals from such situations. Manchester United could exploit this, especially with aerial threats like de Ligt. Conversely, Arsenal’s attacking set-pieces, often orchestrated by Martin Odegaard, could pose problems for United’s defence. In terms of discipline, both teams average around 2.67 yellow cards per game, suggesting that the match could be tightly contested and physical. Players will need to be cautious to avoid costly bookings that could influence the game's outcome. The impact of injuries cannot be overstated. Arsenal will miss Ben White's versatility in defence, while Manchester United's defensive options are limited due to injuries. This scenario could see both teams adapting their tactics, potentially leading to an open and attacking game as they seek to capitalize on each other's defensive weaknesses. Goalkeepers might have a significant impact. Arsenal's David Raya and United's André Onana have both been reliable. Raya averages 1.26 good high claims per game, indicating his ability to deal with aerial threats, while Onana’s shot-stopping has been crucial for United in tight matches. Overall, Arsenal appear to have the momentum and home advantage. Their attacking players are in better form, and they have a strong home record. Manchester United will need to improve their attacking efficiency and maintain defensive concentration to secure a positive result. The match is poised to be a competitive encounter, with both teams eager to assert their ambitions in the Premier League.