EPL: Cunha, Mbeumo shine but defensive woes hand Man United first defeat vs Arsenal

Arsenal opened their Premier League account with a 1-0 win at Old Trafford, punishing Manchester United’s defensive frailties from a set piece.

The decisive moment came in the first half when Declan Rice delivered a corner that United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir failed to claim under pressure from William Saliba.

Riccardo Calafiori reacted quickest to nod the ball over the line, handing Mikel Arteta’s side the lead.

Despite dominating large spells of the contest, United were unable to convert their pressure into goals.

New signings Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha impressed on debut, with Cunha striking the post and testing goalkeeper David Raya, but the finishing touch remained elusive.

Benjamin Sesko’s introduction after the break also failed to alter the outcome.

Arsenal, who struggled for attacking fluency, relied on their defensive organisation and depth from the bench to protect the lead.

Viktor Gyökeres and Martin Zubimendi endured difficult debuts, while substitutes Kai Havertz and Noni Madueke were introduced to steady the performance in the second half.

Source: Gistreel | Read Full Story…