Premier League 2025/26 Season Kicks Off with Manchester United vs Arsenal Showdown
Exciting Start to the Premier League Season
The 2025/26 Premier League season begins today with an exciting match at Old Trafford, where Manchester United will face off against Arsenal, a clash steeped in history.
This marks the 244th encounter between these two football powerhouses. Historically, Manchester United leads with 102 victories, while Arsenal has secured 90 wins, alongside 51 matches ending in a draw. As both teams gear up for this significant match, here are three key discussion points.
Old Trafford: A Stronghold for United?
Last season presented a stark contrast for both teams: Arsenal finished as runners-up, while United struggled, finishing in 15th place. However, their last meeting in Manchester ended in a 1-1 draw, with many believing United deserved a better outcome.
Interestingly, United has performed well at home against Arsenal recently, losing only two of their last 18 encounters at Old Trafford, achieving 10 victories and six draws. Both losses occurred during Mikel Arteta's tenure, in November 2020 and May 2024.
United's Tradition of Strong Opening Days
Starting the season at Old Trafford has become a tradition for Manchester United. This match marks the ninth consecutive year they have opened their season at home, setting a record for any top-flight English club.
Historically, United has excelled on the opening day, winning more Premier League opening matches than any other team (22) and holding the highest win rate (67%) among clubs with multiple seasons in the league.
In their previous season opener last August, they narrowly defeated Fulham 1-0, with new recruit Joshua Zirkzee scoring on his debut.
Can United Break Arsenal's Away Streak?
While Arsenal continues to pursue trophies under Arteta, their consistency is evident. The Gunners are currently on a remarkable 14-match unbeaten streak in away league games, dating back to a 1-0 loss at Newcastle in November 2024.
During this period, they have achieved seven wins and seven draws, marking the second-longest unbeaten away streak in the club's Premier League history. Their record remains a legendary 27-game unbeaten run from April 2003 to September 2004, famously halted at Old Trafford by goals from Ruud van Nistelrooy and Wayne Rooney, which ended the 'Invincibles' run.