Combined XI: Manchester United vs Arsenal
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Monday sees the return of one of the Premier League’s fiercest rivalries as Arsenal travel to Old Trafford to face Manchester United. Both clubs boast a wealth of talent in their squads, so we’ve tried to put together a combined XI ahead of Monday’s hotly contested game.
GK: David de Gea
Was once the undisputed best goalkeeper in the world a few seasons ago, and despite some errors in recent seasons, no one can argue that de Gea is still a top-class goalkeeper. You cannot keep track of the number of points he has saved for United over his tenure at Old Trafford. An excellent shot-stopper, de Gea tends to seem unbeatable when he plays against Arsenal.
RB: Aaron Wan-Bissaka
Has been a brilliant signing for the Red Devils since joining from Crystal Palace. The 21-year-old has been like a brick wall at the back, stopping attackers on the spot with his excellent defensive positioning and strength. However, one aspect he needs to work on is his attacking play. If he can master this, he could easily become of the world’s best right-backs.
CB: Harry Maguire
The world’s most expensive defender has certainly bolstered United’s defensive arsenal. Whilst not reaching his defensive prowess which he achieved at Leicester, Maguire has provided solid performances for United so far this season. A strong and bustling centre-half, Maguire provides stability and reassurance at the back.
CB: Sokratis Papastathopoulos
Like Maguire, Sokratis is a strong and bustling centre-half, who adds some much-needed experience at the back for Arsenal. His experience makes him a good leader and is one who always makes sure the defence is organised and alert.
LB: Kieran Tierney
Got his first proper run-out for Arsenal during the mid-week against Nottingham Forest in the League Cup and looked very promising. The signing from Scottish champions, Celtic, looks to be a phenomenal player. The 22-year-old is lightning quick and has a strong left boot on him, meaning that he is not afraid to take players on, beat them with his pace and stick in a cross in the box. Also, he likes to defend and is not afraid to get stuck in. A great signing for Arsenal, and has a massive chance to prove his worth at Old Trafford.
CDM: Matteo Guendouzi
The 20-year-old does not play like his age at all. Despite being a holding midfielder, Guendouzi is not afraid to run at the opposition and requires no invitation to play the ball forward and attack. The faith given to him by Unai Emery has shown, as the French international has grown in confidence and looks to have cemented his place in the starting XI; especially as his performance was pivotal to Arsenal’s turnaround against Aston Villa.
CM: Paul Pogba
One of the most controversial players on the planet, but you cannot doubt his ability. Pogba is tall, strong and skilful; when playing at his highest confidence, he is unplayable. He has been played everywhere in midfield since joining United, but in the centre-midfield is where he excels. He is strong, so he can win the ball back, but also his long-range passes can pick out any player from anywhere on the pitch.
CM: Dani Ceballos
Has been a great signing for Arsenal and a valuable addition in midfield. Ceballos is a positive footballer, always looking to make things happen, whether that be with his piercing passes, or by directly taking the opposition on. With him on the pitch, a team can feel more threatening on the attack, as Ceballos has the ability to carve open defences and is a treat to play with if you are an attacker who loves to play in behind.
RW: Nicolas Pepe
Arsenal’s record signing has taken time to adjust in the Premier League but has shown signs of growing in confidence for each game. The Ivorian got his scoring record off the mark from the penalty spot last week against Aston Villa, so that might ease his confidence a little more. He has shown glimpses of the ability he possesses; quick feet and always looking to cut in onto that dangerous left foot of his.
LW: Marcus Rashford
Has looked out of confidence and depth so far this season, being forced to play striker due to an absence of centre-forwards at United currently. However, Rashford plays better on the left-wing, where he can utilise his pace down the flank, and commit defenders with his quick feet. He also has a powerful shot on him, so is dangerous if he is given too much time in and around the box.
ST: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
One of the best striker in the Premier League. Aubameyang is a defender’s nightmare. Fast, tall, strong and with a great striker’s instinct, a defender has to watch him for all 90 minutes, using all their concentration. Already bagged himself six goals in six games so far this season, the Gabonese striker is hunting back-to-back Golden Boots.