Arsenal beat Manchester United from corners to secure a convincing victory, as they showcased their set-piece prowess under Mikel Arteta. Defenders Jurrien Timber and William Saliba both found the net, handing Ruben Amorim his first defeat in English football. This win underscores Arsenal’s exceptional ability in converting corners, having scored 22 such goals since the start of last season—the highest in the Premier League.
Arsenal’s Set-Piece Strength Shines Again
The breakthrough came in the 54th minute when Declan Rice delivered a precise corner, allowing Jurrien Timber to head the ball past Andre Onana at the near post. Moments later, United narrowly avoided conceding a second when Manuel Ugarte cleared a deflection off teammate Joshua Zirkzee on the line.
William Saliba secured Arsenal’s win with a bizarre yet effective goal. Bukayo Saka’s corner was headed by Thomas Partey onto Saliba’s back, resulting in the ball finding the net. These goals underscore Arsenal’s growing reputation as a set-piece powerhouse under Arteta’s management.
Arsenal’s dominance from dead-ball situations contrasts with United’s defensive struggles. Despite practicing defensive drills before the game, United conceded twice from corners in a single Premier League match for the first time since January 2014.
Arsenal Back in Title Contention
The victory marks Arsenal’s 500th match at the Emirates Stadium and their third consecutive league win, reinforcing their title ambitions. Arsenal now sits third in the Premier League table with 28 points, level with Chelsea and seven points behind league leaders Liverpool.
Martin Odegaard’s return has revitalized the team, contributing to a five-match unbeaten streak. Even in the absence of Gabriel Magalhaes due to injury, Arsenal’s defenders proved their reliability. Declan Rice’s precise corner deliveries were pivotal in turning defensive moments into scoring opportunities.
United’s Struggles Under Ruben Amorim
Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United struggled to match Arsenal’s intensity. Despite moments of promise, such as Diogo Dalot’s first-half attempt and Matthijs de Ligt’s second-half header, United lacked the finishing touch. Goalkeeper David Raya’s key saves ensured Arsenal’s dominance.
Amorim, appointed in November to revive United’s fortunes, emphasized pre-match that his team was still in transition. Frustrations were evident as he patrolled the touchline, gesturing at missed opportunities and slow transitions. However, the competitive debut of 19-year-old defender Leny Yoro offers hope for the future.
Conclusion
Arsenal’s strategic brilliance from set-pieces and overall cohesive performance underline their resurgence as title contenders. United, meanwhile, faces a steep learning curve under Amorim. This match serves as a reminder of Arsenal’s growing threat in dead-ball situations and their ability to capitalize on opponents’ weaknesses.
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