In the opening round of the 2025-26 Premier League season, Manchester United hosted Arsenal at Old Trafford in a highly anticipated clash.
Despite dominating the match, United fell 0-1 to Arsenal and suffered a disappointing start to the season. The Red Devils fired 22 shots but failed to find the net, leaving them frustrated as the Gunners walked away with all three points.
Calafiori’s Header Seals the Win
The decisive moment came in the 13th minute when Arsenal won a corner from the left. United goalkeeper Bayındır punched the ball poorly, creating chaos in the box. Calafiori reacted quickest at the far post and headed the ball home, giving Arsenal a 1-0 lead that would be the only goal of the match.
United Dominate with 61% Possession
Statistically, Manchester United was in complete control. They enjoyed 61% possession and produced 22 shots compared to Arsenal’s 9. In midfield organization and attacking pressure, United looked superior throughout the game.
However, football is not decided by numbers alone, and United’s dominance failed to translate into goals, as they ultimately crumbled against Arsenal’s solid defense.
Arsenal’s “1-0 Curse” at Old Trafford Strikes Again
This victory pushed Arsenal’s all-time Premier League away record at Old Trafford to 6 wins, 10 draws, and 18 defeats. Intriguingly, all six of Arsenal’s away wins against United have ended with the same scoreline, 1-0.
According to statistics, the result is a Premier League record for the most identical scorelines in away wins against the same opponent.
Raya the Hero with Seven Saves
The standout performer was undoubtedly Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya. He produced seven crucial saves, thwarting United time and again, and he was rightfully named Man of the Match.
Notably, over the past seven years, only three goalkeepers have managed seven saves and a clean sheet at Old Trafford in the Premier League: Pope in 2020, Kepa in 2024, and now Raya in 2025.
Post-Match Reaction: Raya Admits Arsenal Fell Short
Despite his heroics, Raya admitted the Gunners were far from their best.
Speaking after the game, he said, “Our performance wasn’t up to standard today, whether in possession or defense. We weren’t at our best. We have to thank the team for keeping a clean sheet, but honestly, we could have lost this game. ”
“That’s football, though; at the end of the day, what matters is taking home the three points.”
This match once again highlighted football’s ruthless charm: the team in control and creating more chances doesn’t always win. Sometimes, the side that seizes the key opportunity and defends with resilience earns the ultimate reward.
