It has lost some spark in recent years, but this weekend’s clash between Manchester United and Arsenal looks to have the potential to reignite their fierce rivalry…
MATCH TO WATCH: Manchester United v Arsenal (Saturday, Nov 19, 8.30pm)
Once a tie that promised to be an extra spicy affair, the rivalry between Manchester United and Arsenal has gone off the boil somewhat in recent years.
However, this weekend’s clash could prove to be very different.
While both managers have never seen eye to eye with one another (more on this below), both teams have much to fight for this time round.
Arsene Wenger’s recent signings have strengthened Arsenal to the point where they look capable of mounting a serious title challenge.
Meanwhile, United can’t afford any more slips if they want to be considered title challengers – not to mention the fact that Liverpool are currently topping the table.
Both teams should not require any additional motivation to inflict a damaging defeat upon the other side.
MANAGERS TO WATCH: Jose Mourinho and Arsene Wenger (Manchester United v Arsenal)
PHOTO: ACTION IMAGES / TONY O’BRIEN
Many fans and pundits have been surprised with the version of Jose Mourinho that was installed at Old Trafford in the summer.
The typically abrasive Portuguese has looked a lot tamer since being appointed as Louis van Gaal’s successor.
Even so, the Special One could not resist having a pop at Arsene Wenger soon after being unveiled as United manager, certainly an indicator that no love has been lost between the two.
While Wenger has tried to play down the personal rivalry, the Frenchman would definitely relish getting one over the man who has in the past called him a voyeur and a specialist in failure.
With Mourinho still searching for his best team at United, this trip up to Manchester could be Wenger’s best chance to finally score his first league win over his opposite number.
PLAYER TO WATCH: Marcus Rashford (MANCHESTER UNITED v Arsenal)
PHOTO: ACTION IMAGES / JASON CAIRNDUFF
Singled out by Arsene Wenger after his brace gave United a 3-2 victory in the same fixture in February, Marcus Rashford will once again have a key role to play against the Gunners.
With Zlatan Ibrahimovic suspended and Wayne Rooney’s form questionable, the England youngster could be the primary goal threat for United against Arsenal.
However, Rashford will need to rip up the form book – he has not scored in his last seven appearances for United.
TEAM TO WATCH: Liverpool (v Southampton, Saturday, Nov 19, 11pm)
Liverpool’s Sadio Mane celebrates with Jurgen Klopp. PHOTO: REUTERS
You can stop pinching yourselves Liverpool fans. You’re still top of the league.
Not only are the Reds thriving under Juergen Klopp – they’re doing it with plenty of style to boot, as scoring 14 goals in their last four games would suggest.
While they could be missing several key players due to injury to make a trip to Southampton just that little bit trickier, there’s a feeling that it’s going to take a massive rearguard performance from the Saints to suppress Liverpool’s irresistible attack.
Not to mention that the Reds’ considerable collection of Southampton alumni will be relishing the chance to win again at their former home.
