New Delhi: Premier League giants, Arsenal and Manchester United squared off in a pre-season match in Los Angeles. The match ended with a 2-1 win for Arsenal. Rasmus Hojlund scored early for Manchester United in the 10th minute after receiving a pass from Marcus Rashford, outmuscling the defender, and putting the ball through the goalkeeper’s legs. Arsenal quickly responded when Gabriel Jesus scored in the 25th minute to tie the game. Later in the match, Gabriel Martinelli scored the winning goal for Arsenal, cutting inside and finding the net.
The match brought problems for Manchester United as both Rasmus Hojlund and new signing Leny Yoro had to leave the field in the first half due to injuries. This adds to manager Erik ten Hag’s worries with the new Premier League season just around the corner.
Even with the loss, there were some good performances from United players, while Arsenal showed their strong attacking play despite missing some key players. Let’s look at the key talking points from this pre-season match between these two Premier League teams.
1. Injury woes for Erik Ten Hag ahead of the new season
INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 27: Manager Erik ten Hag of Manchester United watches from the touchline during the pre-season friendly match between Manchester United and Arsenal at SoFi Stadium on July 27, 2024 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)
Manchester United faced significant injury concerns during their pre-season match against Arsenal. Rasmus Hojlund, who scored an early goal, had to leave the field after 15 minutes due to a muscle problem. New signing Leny Yoro, who joined from Lille for £52 million, also exited the match with an injury after receiving extensive treatment.
These early setbacks are troubling for manager Erik ten Hag, especially considering last season’s injury issues. Ten Hag stressed the importance of carefully managing player fitness as the Premier League season approaches, hoping for quick recoveries for both Hojlund and Yoro.
2. Both teams displayed shaky defending
INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 27: James Scanlon of Manchester United in action during the pre-season friendly match between Manchester United and Arsenal at SoFi Stadium on July 27, 2024 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)
Both Manchester United and Arsenal displayed defensive vulnerabilities in this pre-season encounter. United, missing Victor Lindelof due to a minor injury, had to rely on 20-year-old Rhys Bennett to partner Harry Maguire in defence. Bennett, who spent part of last season on loan at Stockport, had moments of promise but also showed his inexperience.
Arsenal’s attackers, particularly Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli, capitalised on these gaps. Jesus scored the equaliser, which Ten Hag felt should have been offside, and Martinelli scored the winning goal. Arsenal’s defence also faced challenges, with Mason Mount and Marcus Rashford creating several scoring opportunities for United. This match highlighted the defensive issues both teams must address before the new season begins.
3. Impressive attack by Arsenal
INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 27: Gabriel Martinelli #11 of Arsenal is congratulated by Kai Havertz #29 and Eddie Nketiah #14 scoring a goal in the second half a friendly pre-season soccer match against Manchester United at SoFi Stadium on July 27, 2024 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
Arsenal’s attacking performance was notable, even with some key players missing. Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli were particularly impressive. Jesus scored the equaliser, and Martinelli netted the winning goal. Manager Mikel Arteta praised Martinelli’s sharpness and determination, especially given his limited preparation time after Copa America.
Despite missing stars like Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka, who will join the squad later, Arsenal showed depth and fluidity in their attack. This positive display bodes well for integrating returning players and maintaining strong offensive play as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Premier League giants, Arsenal and Manchester United squared off in a pre-season match in Los Angeles. The match ended with a 2-1 win for Arsenal. Check out the key talking points from the clash between the Premier League title contenders. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
