£35m star sends message to Arteta after outshining 24yo Arsenal ace, start him vs Man Utd - opinion

Arsenal take on Manchester United in their Premier League curtain-raiser at Old Trafford on August 17.

Ahead of the game, manager Mikel Arteta could opt for a few changes to the starting line-up.

Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ben White were second-half substitutes in the 3-0 win over Athletic Club.

The duo could come in for Riccardo Calafiori and Jurrien Timber in the left and right-back positions.

There could likewise be a change on the left wing with Noni Madueke starting ahead of Gabriel Martinelli.

Martinelli, 24, had a much improved display against Athletic compared to the 3-2 defeat to Villarreal.

However, there was still daylight between his and Madueke’s performance.

Both players got 45 minutes to make a point to the manager. Madueke made a big mark.

Madueke had almost twice the number of touches as Martinelli (25 to 13).

He made 15 successful passes compared to Martinelli’s four, with two long balls.

The duo created one big chance apiece, but Madueke also managed one successful dribble and provided a different dimension to the attack with his crossing from the left flank.

In our view, the £35 million-rated star has done enough to warrant a starting role ahead of Martinelli, though Arteta may have different plans in mind against the Red Devils.

We won’t be surprised if Martinelli starts at Old Trafford next Sunday. Madueke could be brought on at the interval if the Brazil international is unable to make a notable impact.

Arsenal were beaten by United in the FA Cup third round on penalties last term, but they are undefeated in the last five league meetings versus the Red Devils, with four wins and a draw.

The Gunners will be eyeing another victory against their arch-rivals next weekend.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com

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