Manchester United implodes at Old Trafford as Arsenal escapes with a draw | OneFootball

Manchester United vs. Arsenal, one of the Premier League's Big Six derbies, ended in a 1-1 draw at a sold-out Old Trafford. The result can seem to be another on paper, but the game told a much deeper story. On the other hand, the Gunners sit and watch as Liverpool get closer to the league title. In the meantime, United hovers between moments of competitiveness and moments of pure frustration. With stunning goals, tactical decisions, and a death save by David Raya, there's much to dissect from this match, which had a bit of everything.

The game got underway with Arsenal dominating possession but being unable to translate that into genuine chances. United, though, seemed comfortable to sit back and wait for the moment to strike. And it was well worth it.

Just before half-time, Bruno Fernandes delivered a superb free-kick to break the stalemate and send Old Trafford into bedlam. A goal against the trend of play to date, but it showed the character of a side that, while inconsistent, still has individual talent that can make a difference.

Arsenal stepped into the dressing room knowing they had to play tougher in the second half. Possession for possession's sake was a risk, and the scored goal was the final penalty for that inability to be accurate.

Response, adjustments, and a wall named Raya

In the second period, United looked revitalized. The advantage had boosted their confidence, and the team started to create more chances, especially by using Garnacho's speed on the right wing. The Argentine winger troubled Arsenal's defense and almost doubled the advantage, but Raya came to their rescue.

On the other side, in the meantime, Arsenal only showed greater attacking ferocity. United was exposed more, and the Gunners capitalized on the space to level with a beautiful shot by Declan Rice, who channeled the ball into the corner, and Onana didn't stand a chance.

The equalizer leveled the game, and the final minutes were a tense struggle. Old Trafford attempted to score a winning goal, and Arsenal attempted not to commit any costly mistakes. Gabriel Martinelli received a good opportunity, but Onana made an important save. Bruno Fernandes was left with an open opportunity to score in the very last minute, but Raya made a miracle stop to secure the draw for the Gunners.

Standings situation

The result is bitter for both sides. Arsenal loses two precious points in the title race and sees Liverpool getting further away. One game in hand, the deficit to leaders is now 15 points, and Mikel Arteta's men are second with 55 points.

For United, it's tough. A home draw, regardless against how struggling a team, doesn't change much in the table. The team is still well behind the top and still fighting just to qualify for European competitions, 14th place with 34 points.