This fixture saw an exciting display of end-to-end football which is likely to be an early contestant for game of the season. Infamous manager, Jose Mourinho, was eager to share his delight within the post-match interview, highlighting that his side demonstrated a convincing yet professional performance.
Club captain, Antonio Valencia, opened the scoring within the fourth minute of the match with a low decisive shot beneath Petr Cech. However, contrary to the scoreline, it was the North London side that appeared to be in control of the match.
Arsenal's frustration
Throughout the match, Arsene Wenger's men had an outrageous 75% of the possession with a total of 33 attempted shots. Although this may be perceived that the Gunners were unlucky in front of goal, this wasn't the case. Man of the match and arguably the Premier League's best goalkeeper, David De Gea, kept the Red Devils within this tie, making a total of 14 saves. Yes, you read that right.
Despite this, Manchester United's were by far the more clinical side with their chances, especially Jesse Lingard. The Manchester United academy graduate provided an energetic performance within this fixture and proved to much to handle for Arsenal's defence.
The Lingard effect
Lingard managed to double Manchester United's scoreline in the eleventh minute of the fixture, creating a healthy two goal lead early on within the game.
Notably, Lukaku's incisive pass towards Martial and his skilful flick towards the Englishman was certainly the highlights of this goal, as it demonstrates the Red Devils lethalness in attack.
From this point, Arsenal continued to bombard the Manchester United penalty area, with David De Gea producing multiple world class saves.
Despite this, the North London side were handed a life line as French talisman, Alexandre Lacazette, provided a goal in the 49th minute - not to mention a wonderful assist by Aaron Ramsey.
To much of the displeasure of the Arsenal fans, man of the moment, Jesse Lingard, scored yet another goal. Paul Pogba picked up the ball and made an assertive run into the box to later provide a teasing cross across the face of the goal, leaving Jesse Lingard with an open net.
Mourinho's take on the game
Mourinho praised the young English forward about his performance, highlighting his important role within the team.
"He played well. He did what the team needed him to do, defensively and also in terms of going into finishing areas".
"When we play with two strikers we need people from the midfield that can arrive in finishing situations and that's what Jesse did for us"
