Even though football is a sport where the unexpected happens often, a league title has the tendency of being decided on particular games. More than that, a club’s season can be defined by an individual 90 minutes. This Saturday, two teams who have been some of the most successful in the Premier League era will face off. However, Arsenal and Manchester United have had contrasting seasons so far. While Arsenal have been extremely impressive in the initial part of this marathon season, Manchester United have struggled to show any consistency this year.
Could this match against Arsenal change their year?
What style will José employ?
When the appointment of the self-proclaimed “Special One” was announced, some fans of the Red Devils were sceptical of how their beloved team will perform. In history, at least during the storied ‘Ferguson’ era, attacking and enthralling football was the norm. However, Mourinho has the characteristic of being pragmatic and the result being of upmost importance. While there have been moments of brilliant football this season, Mourinho has struggled to win over all his critics. Part of that is due to this being such a massive job, with any manager requiring time to leave his imprint on the team. History tells us that Mourinho will be at his pragmatic best on Saturday, with the aim being not to lose.
He cannot afford to lose in front of his home crowd to a rival. But, will the United faithful accept that style?
Will Arsenal go all out for victory?
While there are several questions being asked of their opponents, Arsenal head into Saturday with only a few injury concerns that bother them. The players must be brimming with confidence, after having such stellar results this season.
After that opening day defeat to Liverpool, going unbeaten in all competitions must give Arsene Wenger real satisfaction. But, the Frenchman will know all too well that this is a massive test. Despite Manchester United’s indifferent form, winning at Old Trafford will be a major achievement. The real question will be as to how Wenger will set up his team.
Will he be happy to come back to London with a draw? Most fans of the Gunners will want their team to show intent and put a statement, like they did against Chelsea earlier this season.
Mourinho vs Wenger subplot is fascinating
For so long in their career, Mourinho has been the dominant figure in this rivalry. Furthermore, he has an astonishing record, only losing once in 15 matches. Whenever these two great managers come up against one another, José always has the edge as his team seems to be in far better shape than Arsenal. However, this time around the roles are reversed. The pressure is all on the Portuguese and the questions are minimal for Wenger. What will be interesting to see is how both these characters handle those positions pre-match, on the touchline and post-match.
It may be expected that Mourinho will be the far more animated, but Wenger could be more fired up too as he sees this as an opportunity to stamp his authority. Whatever the outcome, the eyes of the world will be fixated in Manchester.
