Arsenal began their 2025/26 Premier League campaign with a gritty 1-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday, with summer signing Riccardo Calafiori making an immediate impact for the Gunners.
Defensive Blunder Decides Contest
The match turned in the 13th minute when United's stand-in goalkeeper Altay Bayindir misjudged Declan Rice's corner, allowing Calafiori to power home a close-range header. The Italian defender's debut goal ultimately separated the sides in a closely-fought encounter.
United Show Attacking Promise
Despite the defeat, Ruben Amorim's revamped United side demonstrated significant improvement from last season. New signings Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko all made their debuts, with Cunha and Mbeumo particularly threatening throughout.
"I'm really proud of the guys. They were really brave in everything they did during the game," said Amorim in his post-match interview.
Raya Stands Tall for Arsenal
Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya earned Player of the Match honors with several crucial saves, including spectacular stops to deny both Mbeumo and Cunha. The Spanish shot-stopper's performance proved vital as United created 15 attempts on goal compared to Arsenal's modest 9.
Key Moments
- 13': Calafiori capitalizes on Bayindir error to head Arsenal ahead
- 32': Raya makes sharp save to push Cunha's effort wide
- 44': Patrick Dorgu rattles the post with fierce long-range strike
- 68': Raya acrobatically tips over Mbeumo's headed attempt
Neville Praises Gunners' Resilience
Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville highlighted Arsenal's defensive solidity: "They showed a lot of resilience. To come to Manchester... and get three points is big for Mikel Arteta."
While Arsenal secured an important opening-day victory, United's performance suggested they could be a much-improved force this season. Both teams now turn their attention to Matchweek 2, with Arsenal hosting Aston Villa and United traveling to Brighton.
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