Arsenal Hold Manchester United to 1-1 Draw at Old Trafford

Bruno Fernandes put Manchester United ahead in first-half stoppage time, but Arsenal equalized through Declan Rice in the 74th minute. Despite United’s defensive approach, they nearly won late, but David Raya crucial saves secured a point for Arsenal. Arsenal dominated possession but struggled in attack, leaving them 15 points behind league leaders Liverpool.

Ahead of the high-stakes clash at Old Trafford, Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim downplayed expectations, given the team’s injury crisis with 11 players unavailable. Despite this, United nearly secured a crucial victory before Arsenal’s Declan Rice salvaged a point with a 74th-minute equalizer.

Bruno Fernandes opened the scoring for United in first-half stoppage time with a free-kick, aided by Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya’s questionable positioning. Arsenal dominated possession but struggled in the final third, with missed chances from Martin Ødegaard, Leandro Trossard, and Gabriel Martinelli.

United’s defense held firm in a deep 5-4-1 setup, frustrating Arsenal. However, Rice’s late curling strike leveled the score, denying United a much-needed win. Raya redeemed himself with a crucial last-minute save, preventing Fernandes from sealing the victory.

The game also featured pre-match protests against the Glazer family's ownership, with thousands of United fans voicing their frustration. Arsenal, now trailing Liverpool by 15 points, see their title hopes fading. Meanwhile, United’s cautious approach continues to earn results against top teams but highlights their ongoing struggles under Amorim. The draw leaves Arsenal second in the table, while United remain stuck in mid-table mediocrity.