Manchester United Face Arsenal in High-Stakes FA Cup Clash

Manchester United and Arsenal are set to clash in a highly anticipated Emirates FA Cup third-round tie on Sunday, January 12, 2025, at 15:00 GMT. The match, held at the Emirates Stadium, pits two of England’s most storied clubs against each other, with Arsenal holding the record for the most FA Cup titles (14) and United close behind as the current holders.

United, under new head coach Ruben Amorim, are looking to bounce back from a recent 4-3 loss to Tottenham in the Carabao Cup. Amorim confirmed that Altay Bayindir will start in goal, replacing Andre Onana, while Marcus Rashford is available for selection after recovering from illness. Key players Victor Lindelof, Luke Shaw, and Mason Mount remain sidelined due to injuries.

Arsenal, managed by Mikel Arteta, are dealing with their own injury woes. Star winger Bukayo Saka is out with a thigh problem, and young talent Ethan Nwaneri is also unavailable. Despite these setbacks, Arsenal have a strong record against United at the Emirates, having won their last four encounters at the venue.

Arteta, who led Arsenal to FA Cup glory in 2020, is under pressure to deliver silverware after back-to-back second-place finishes in the Premier League. A deep cup run could help solidify his position and calm growing frustrations among the fanbase. Meanwhile, Amorim, who took over from Erik ten Hag, is still finding his footing at Old Trafford and views the FA Cup as an opportunity to build momentum.

The match promises to be a tactical battle, with both teams looking to assert dominance. Arsenal’s Declan Rice, a key figure in midfield, could play a pivotal role in disrupting United’s counter-attacks. For United, young winger Amad Diallo is one to watch, having made an immediate impact off the bench in recent games.

Historically, clashes between these two giants have been filled with drama and intensity. Fans will be hoping for a thrilling encounter, with both teams eager to advance in a competition that holds significant prestige for both clubs.