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Arsenal vs Manchester United Preview: Odds, Tips and Prediction

Date: January 25, 2026 Venue: Emirates Stadium Kickoff Time: 18:30 Few fixtures carry the swagger, chaos, and history quite like this matchup between Arsenal and Man United, a rivalry that has delivered everything from tunnel bust-ups to title-deciders and last-minute heartbreaks. Premier League betting fans can evaluate both teams and take advantage of substantial odds ahead of kickoff. This latest chapter arrives with Arsenal riding a wave of confidence after recent dominance in this fixture, including memorable wins at home and away, while United turns up under new leadership following a coaching change aimed at resetting a turbulent campaign.

Marc Strydom
Marc Strydom

Last updated: 2026-01-19

Chad Nagel

6 minutes read

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Gabriel Magalhaes of Arsenal celebrates at full time during the Premier League

Gabriel Magalhaes / Getty Images

The Gunners, sharper and more settled, see this match as another chance to underline their progress, while the Red Devils arrive with something to prove. Add the ghosts of past classics and the pressure of the present, and this clash promises more than just three points. 
From fierce title battles of the early 2000s to recent encounters that have swung momentum and belief, Arsenal and Manchester United are set to renew their rivalry on 25 January 2026. The Emirates Stadium has become a tough place to visit for any team, which will see the Gunners aiming to reinforce their authority, and United attempting to halt a slide and redefine themselves under new leadership. 

Pre-Game Odds & Win Probability

  1. HOME (ARSENAL): 47/100 (1.47) – 68%

  2. DRAW: 37/10 (4.70) – 21.3%

  3. AWAY (MAN UNITED): 28/5 (6.60) – 15.2% 

    Odds courtesy of William Hill, subject to change.

Head-To-Head Record

Last five meetings (All Competitions)

    • 17/08/2025: Man United 0-1 Arsenal
    • 09/03/2025: Man United 1-1 Arsenal
    • 12/01/2025: Arsenal 1-2 Man United
    • 04/12/2024: Arsenal 2-0 Man United 
    • 28/07/2024: Arsenal 2-1 Man United 

Arsenal Current Form – DWWDW

Arsenal’s grip on the Premier League summit feels firm, purposeful, and increasingly convincing. With performances that radiate belief and authority, the Gunners have evolved into a side that embraces pressure rather than fearing it. Every match adds to the sense of inevitability, as confidence, swagger, and structure blend into a title challenge that looks built to last. 

Coming into this fixture, Arsenal have displayed performances that speak of hunger and resolve. Against Liverpool, both sides had chances but lacked any real threat, resulting in a goalless draw. Portsmouth was next in the FA Cup, and after going down early, the Gunners were ramped in a commanding comeback victory to advance into the next round.

The victory over rivals Chelsea in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg was not just another impressive win but extended their unbeaten run to a remarkable 32 games in all competitions. Taking on Nottingham at the City Ground had Arsenal scrabbling for answers, and missed opportunities resulted in a goalless draw. 

Key Players To Watch

  • Bukayo Saka: Saka’s quality is unquestionable. He is a player who demands attention every time he touches the ball, capable of unlocking defences with creativity or dismantling them through direct, fearless dribbling. Whether creating or finishing chances, Saka’s influence on Arsenal's attacking play is undeniable. 
  • Viktor Gyokeres: Gyokeres offers a rare blend of physicality and tactical intelligence. Every run is aggressive, every duel contested, and every touch carries intent. He thrives on contact, bullies defenders, and still has the composure to turn and finish or slip a teammate in. The Swedish international brings an edge and authority to Arsenal’s frontline, making him a constant threat. 
  • Declan Rice: When Rice is on the field, everything feels more comfortable for the Gunners. He controls the tempo, shields the defence with intelligence and discipline, and brings authority to every phase of play. Whether breaking up attacks, driving forward with the ball, or delivering in decisive moments, Rice’s influence is constant and commanding.    

Arsenal Team News

Riccardo Calafiori (strain) is progressing well but is still a few weeks away from returning to the matchday squad. Cristhian Mosquera (ankle) is nearing a return early next month and working hard on getting back to full fitness.

Manchester United Current Form – WLDDD

There is always a narrative around Manchester United, and this season has been no exception. Struggling for rhythm, the Red Devils turned to a new coach by making a bold move that signals ambition and refusal to stagnate. The squad is packed with creative attackers and experienced campaigners, but they lack cohesion, and the coaching change offers fresh structure, renewed belief, and a chance of reinvention.

In saying that, the last five games for United have seen improved performances and have collectively shown more belief. Rounding out a busy festive period, the Red Devils drew with Wolves, possibly their worst performance in recent matches. Heading into the new year, Leeds shared the points with United in a fixture that had chances on both sides, but neither could capitalize.

On their travels to Burnley, the Red Devils were held to their third consecutive draw, highlighting ongoing struggles to consistently control matches and close games out. United’s FA Cup hopes came to an end after Brighton knocked them out at Old Trafford; however, a spirited performance, injected with renewed energy and belief, secured a massive win over Manchester City in the derby. With confidence restored, the Red Devils will hope to follow up and take points off Arsenal.

Key Players To Watch

  • Bruno Fernandes: Fernandes remains the creative heartbeat of United. His vision, passing range, and willingness to take responsibility in decisive moments make him the team’s primary source of invention. In high-stakes fixtures, his quality and mentality can define United’s performance. 
  • Lisandro Martinez: Martinez is a defender who combines steel with skill. Equally comfortable breaking up attacks or stepping into midfield to dictate play, he reads the game with intelligence and acts decisively in crucial moments. His return has been vital for the Red Devils.
  • Matheus Cunha: Cunha is comfortable receiving the ball between the lines or driving into space and combines dribbling ability with intelligent movement. With the quality to both score and create, the Brazilians' influence continues to grow, underlining his impact in attack for United. 

Man United Team News

Noussair Mazraoui is away on international duty, and Matthijs De Ligt (back) could find himself up for selection for this fixture after missing the last 10 games with a back injury. 

Predicted Line-Up

  1. Arsenal: 4-3-3
    Raya, Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, White, Zubimendi, Rice, Odegaard, Trossard, Saka, Gyokeres 

  2. Man United: 4-2-3-1
    Lammens, Dalot, Maguire, Martinez, Shaw, Casemiro, Mainoo, Diallo, Fernandes, Mount, Mbeumo

Suggested Bets

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  1. Both Teams To Score (Yes): Despite Arsenal’s control, United possesses individual attacking quality capable of producing a goal even under pressure. 21/25 (1.84) with Betway.

  2. Total (Over 2.5): Recent meetings, attacking profiles, and the context of this fixture suggest an open game and goals on the day. 13/20 (1.65) with Midnite. 

  3. First Half – First Goal (Arsenal): The Gunners usually start aggressively, especially at home, which will test United’s resolve in the early stages. 3/4 (1.75) with Hollywoodbets.

Value Bets

Use informed insights and tips to evaluate both teams and identify value bets that offer more for your money.

  1. Arsenal To Win & Both Teams To Score (Yes): This combines Arsenal’s superiority with United’s ability to find a goal, offering higher value than a straight win. 19/10 (2.90) with Unibet

  2. Winning Margin (Arsenal by 1): This fixture will come down to individual brilliance, which Arsenal have in abundance, giving them the edge over United. 27/10 (3.70) with Betway.

  3. Second Half – First Goal (Man United): After analyzing and regrouping, United will come out after the break and surprise the Gunners with early attacks to put Arsenal on the back foot. 53/20 (3.65) with William Hill. 

Prediction: Arsenal To Win

Arsenal approach this fixture with unwavering confidence, especially on home soil, where the Emirates has become a fortress. While United arrive with renewed belief, the Gunners' recent dominance in this matchup firmly establishes them as favourites, providing the momentum and assurance needed to push for a much-needed victory against their historic rivals.

Marc Strydom
Marc StrydomSports Writer

A dedicated sports lover with a wealth of experience in the sports betting world, Marc Strydom has mostly worked as an Editor-in-chief of a sports betting newspaper in South Africa. Marc’s enthusiasm covers many sports, though he is most passionate about football and the NBA. He has covered a wide range of topics on multiple respected platforms.

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