Manchester United vs Arsenal: Our Combined XI for the Blockbuster Premier League Opener
The big game is here—and we’re here for it. With both teams stacked with star power, it’s only fair to put together a combined XI ahead of this Premier League curtain-raiser. Let’s break it down position by position.
Goalkeeper – David Raya (Arsenal)
Golden Glove winner last season, David Raya has been an integral part of Arsenal’s rock-solid defense. His consistency, distribution, and calm presence make him an easy pick over United’s André Onana, whose time at Old Trafford has been turbulent at best. At this moment, Raya is miles ahead.
Right Back – Jurrien Timber (Arsenal)
One of the most underrated players in the league, Jurrien Timber reads the game brilliantly. While the main debate was between Timber and his own teammate Ben White, recency bias tips it in Timber’s favour. Against United’s Diogo Dalot, Timber edges it comfortably.
Left Back – Myles Lewis-Skelly (Arsenal)
United’s left-back options are thin—Luke Shaw at best, but that’s a stretch given recent form and fitness issues. Arsenal, on the other hand, boast both Myles Lewis-Skelly and Riccardo Calafiori, two of the league’s best in this position. After a breakout season, Lewis-Skelly gets the nod.
Centre Backs – William Saliba & Gabriel Magalhães (Arsenal)
No debate here. Saliba and Gabriel were the backbone of Arsenal’s league-best defense last season. While Lisandro Martínez is quality when fit, you simply can’t overlook the chemistry and dominance Saliba and Gabriel bring together.
Midfield – Martin Zubimendi (Arsenal)
A sensational signing, Martin Zubimendi has transformed Arsenal’s midfield. His ability to dictate the tempo and switch gears instantly is exactly what the Gunners have been missing for years.
Midfield – Declan Rice (Arsenal)
No questions asked—Declan Rice walks into this team. Arsenal’s most influential player last season, Rice has justified every penny of his £100 million price tag by making it a non-topic altogether.
Attacking Midfield – Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United)
Finally, a United player makes the cut. Bruno Fernandes remains the Premier League’s most consistent chance creator. In the No. 10 role, he currently edges out Martin Ødegaard with his vision, passing range, and big-game impact.
Right Wing – Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)
Do we even need to explain this one? Bukayo Saka is one of the best right wingers in the world. Even in a league with Mo Salah doing absurd things, Saka continues to shine and still has the ceiling to be the best of his generation.
Left Wing – Matheus Cunha (Manchester United)
A surprise pick, perhaps, but Matheus Cunha’s output last season with Wolves—almost single-handedly keeping them up—earns him this spot. Martinelli’s dip in form and Trossard’s inconsistency give Cunha the edge here.
Striker – Viktor Gyökeres (Arsenal)
This was the toughest call: Viktor Gyökeres vs Benjamin Sesko vs Kai Havertz. Both Gyökeres and Sesko are new to the Premier League, but Gyökeres’ ridiculous 50+ goals last season in Portugal makes him impossible to ignore. In this combined XI, he leads the line.
Final Combined XI (4-3-3):
Raya – Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly ,Zubimendi -Rice- Bruno, Cunha-Gyökeres-Saka
