Arsenal vs Manchester United Predictions

Arsenal vs Manchester United predictions for this FA Cup fixture. Arsenal host Manchester United in a thrilling FA Cup third-round tie at the Emirates. Both teams, in strong form, promise an exciting contest in this heavyweight clash. Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.

FA Cup - Jan 12, 2025 at 3pm UK at Emirates Stadium

Arsenal vs Manchester United Predictions

Will Arsenal's Attacking Flair Prove Too Much for Manchester United?

• Havertz's Streak: Kai Havertz has scored in his last two Premier League starts and is priced at 13/10 to score or assist.

• United's Scoring Run: Amad Diallo has scored in Manchester United's last two away fixtures against top-six opposition.

• Defensive Contributions: Arsenal defenders William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães have scored six goals between them this season, highlighting their set-piece threat.

Our Tips

The third round of the FA Cup rarely disappoints, and this weekend's clash between Arsenal and Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium has all the ingredients of a classic. Arsenal, after a mixed bag of recent results, are eager to re-establish their dominance. The Gunners' 3-1 victory over Brentford to kick off the year hinted at a side with potential, but a stumble at Brighton and a painful 2-0 home loss to Newcastle in the EFL Cup semi-final first leg have left fans questioning their form. Mikel Arteta's men must rally quickly to avoid further disappointment, and the FA Cup offers a perfect opportunity for redemption.

Manchester United, on the other hand, arrive in London on the back of their best performance of the season - a spirited 2-2 draw against Liverpool at Anfield. Ruben Amorim's side showed resilience and flashes of attacking promise in that encounter, suggesting they may finally be finding their feet under his management. Despite their underdog status, United have every reason to believe they can cause an upset. Will Arsenal's recent wobbles prove their undoing, or will the visitors struggle to overcome their poor form at the Emirates? All eyes will be on this tantalising showdown.

Best Bet: Kai Havertz to Score or Assist
Given Arsenal's reliance on creativity in key moments, Kai Havertz emerges as the standout pick for this tie. The German playmaker has scored in each of his last two Premier League starts, demonstrating a knack for delivering under pressure. His adaptability in the final third allows him to contribute either as a goalscorer or a provider, making him a significant threat to Manchester United's defence.

Havertz thrives in spaces where defensive frailties can be exploited, and Manchester United's backline, while improved at Anfield, remains far from watertight. The potential absence of Ben White and Bukayo Saka only amplifies Havertz's importance as Arsenal look to him for attacking impetus. His partnership with Gabriel Jesus and Martin Ødegaard has shown promise, and their interplay could unlock United's defence.

Moreover, Arsenal's strength from set-pieces adds another dimension to Havertz's influence. With William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães often drawing defensive attention during set-pieces, Havertz can capitalise on any secondary chances that fall in his path. He is also capable of delivering the decisive pass from wide areas or just outside the box.

"Havertz has been quietly consistent in recent weeks, and against a United side still finding their defensive rhythm, he could be the match-winner," notes BettingTips4You.com expert Tyler Morris. "The odds of 13/10 for him to either score or assist offer excellent value, given his form and Arsenal's dependence on him in key moments."

With Arsenal eager to make a statement and Havertz pivotal to their attacking plans, backing him to register either a goal or assist at 13/10 looks like a solid proposition.

Second Prediction: Arsenal to Win and Over 2.5 Goals
The likelihood of goals in this match cannot be overstated. Arsenal's attacking prowess has been evident throughout the season, with Havertz, Ødegaard, and Gabriel Jesus forming a potent trio. At the Emirates, the Gunners often turn on the style, and with Manchester United's defensive inconsistencies away from home, this game could follow a similar script.

Manchester United have shown they are not afraid to go toe-to-toe with stronger opposition, as evidenced by their 2-2 draw with Liverpool. However, their willingness to attack often leaves them exposed at the back, which Arsenal are well-equipped to exploit. Expect Ruben Amorim's side to push forward, leaving gaps for Arsenal's pace and precision in transitions.

Backing Arsenal to win with over 2.5 goals at 2/1 offers value, especially given the history of high-scoring affairs between these sides. The Gunners' ability to combine individual brilliance with collective pressure could overwhelm United, who may struggle to maintain their defensive shape for the full 90 minutes.

Correct Score Prediction: Arsenal 3-1 Manchester United
Predicting a 3-1 scoreline for this fixture aligns with the overall narrative of the game. Arsenal, with their superior attacking options and home advantage, are expected to dominate proceedings. While Manchester United have shown glimpses of improvement, their defensive vulnerabilities, coupled with Arsenal's attacking fluidity, make it likely the home side will find the net multiple times.

However, United's recent attacking displays, spearheaded by Amad Diallo and Rasmus Højlund, suggest they are capable of getting on the scoresheet. Diallo, in particular, has been a revelation in key away fixtures, and his sharp movement in the final third could trouble Arsenal's defence.

The Gunners' ability to control games through midfield dominance and effective pressing will likely result in sustained pressure on United's goal. A late strike for the visitors may flatter the scoreline, but Arsenal's firepower should see them comfortably through to the next round.