Arsenal Sink United with Set-Piece Masterclass

Arsenal capitalized on their set-piece prowess to defeat Manchester United 2-0 at the Emirates, ending Ruben Amorim’s unbeaten start as United manager. Goals from defenders Jurrien Timber and William Saliba highlighted Arsenal’s dominance, both stemming from well-executed corners by Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka. Timber opened the scoring in the 54th minute, heading in Rice’s corner at the near post. Saliba sealed the win later when a Thomas Partey header ricocheted off his back into the net following another corner.

Arsenal have now scored 22 goals from corners since the start of last season, more than any other Premier League side. Despite a few bright moments for United such as Diogo Dalot’s first-half strike and David Raya’s excellent save to deny Matthijs de Ligt, Arsenal controlled the match, especially in the closing stages. Substitute Mikel Merino missed a chance to extend the lead and Kai Havertz’s effort was stopped by Andre Onana.

This victory, Arsenal’s third consecutive league win extends their unbeaten streak to five matches and elevates them to third in the Premier League, level on points with Chelsea and seven behind leaders Liverpool. It also marked their 500th game at the Emirates. United’s defensive struggles continued as they conceded two goals from corners for the first time since 2014. Amorim’s tactical preparations were evident but his team failed to execute effectively.

Despite the setback, 19-year-old debutant Leny Yoro provided a glimpse of promise for United, who remain a work in progress under Amorim. The Portuguese manager acknowledged his team’s gap to Arsenal as his frustration on the touchline reflected the challenges of turning United into consistent challengers. Arsenal’s resurgence, fueled by Martin Odegaard’s return, reaffirms their title ambitions with Mikel Arteta’s men looking formidable once more.