Man Utd's likely defence vs Arsenal with a surprise starter

Manchester United host Arsenal in their first Premier League game of the 2025/26 season at Old Trafford on August 17.

The Red Devils beat the Gunners in the FA Cup third round on penalties last term, but have not won a league meeting since September 2022.

United ended a four-match losing league streak with a 1-1 draw at home in March, and will be aiming to secure maximum points later this month.

Ahead of the much-awaited contest, let’s have a look at how the Red Devils could line up in defence.

Goalkeeper

Andre Onana picked up a hamstring injury at the start of pre-season training and has yet to make an appearance. If he can’t prove his fitness, there could be a surprise starter.

Altay Bayindir and Tom Heaton have got turns to make the starting XI for the Red Devils. The latter played the entire 90 minutes against Bournemouth and made a big impression.

Heaton made a fantastic save with his right foot in the second half. He was also assured in the opening half against the Cherries and could be rewarded with a starting spot.

The Englishman may be 39, but he has vast Premier League experience. He looks more composed between the sticks than Bayindir, who has been vulnerable against the high press.

Back three

Noussair Mazraoui has been on the sidelines due to injury and may not start the season opener. The same can be said for Lisandro Martinez, who is only touted to return in September after a long-term knee setback.

In our view, manager Ruben Amorim should go with his best possible choices. He has a preference for a left-footed centre-back, but Luke Shaw is no longer in his prime, while Ayden Heaven is still relatively inexperienced.

Matthijs de Ligt, Harry Maguire and Leny Yoro should be the Red Devils’ back three to face Arsenal. Maguire has previously received plenty of criticism, but operating in the middle of central defence has brought the best out of him.

Wing-backs

Amorim may prefer a defensive-minded right wing-back to handle Arsenal’s threat on the left wing. Therefore, Diogo Dalot could get the nod in the starting XI ahead of Amad Diallo, who could come on after the hour mark.

Patrick Dorgu should be an assured starter from the opposite end. The Dane has had a bright pre-season and recently bagged a goal and an assist against the Cherries. He has started to find the right balance in attack and defence.

How Man Utd could line up in defence vs Arsenal

Article written by Sri Aswin .