Rio Ferdinand has given a surprising prediction ahead of Arsenal’s Premier League opener at Manchester United

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The waiting is almost over for Arsenal fans as the Premier League return is just days away.

Arsenal face a tough start to the season as they face tricky encounters at Old Trafford and Anfield in their first three fixtures.

Mikel Arteta will be desperate for his new-look squad to get off to a good start but knows that Manchester United will also be keen to make an impact on the new season.

Ally McCoist has backed Viktor Gyokeres to score more goals than United’s new striker Benjamin Sesko and now former defender Rio Ferdinand has given his prediction on the huge opening clash.

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Rio Ferdinand thinks Arsenal will draw against Manchester United

Speaking on the latest episode of the ‘Rio Ferdinand Presents’ podcast, the former Manchester United and England defender has predicted a draw in the upcoming Premier League clash.

When asked for his prediction on the game, Ferdinand stated: “I’m going draw. I’m going score draw. I’m going to go for 1-1 score draw.”

The last fixture between the two sides in March also ended in a 1-1 draw as Declan Rice cancelled out a Bruno Fernandes free kick.

The Gunners were perhaps lucky to escape with a point, despite dominating possession it was David Raya who was kept the busier of the two keepers and had to make a stunning late stop to prevent Arsenal from losing the game.

Mikel Arteta has excellent managerial record against Manchester United

Arteta has an incredible record against Manchester United since taking over as Arsenal manager back in 2019.

His first victory as a manager came in a 2-0 win over United at the Emirates Stadium back in January 2020 and since then, Arteta has gone on to win a further six games.

He has only been defeated twice and drawn twice in 11 games played against the Red Devils and will be hoping to further extend his success in the upcoming clash.

The Spaniard will know how important getting off to a good start in the league will be and three points at Old Trafford would be a huge momentum builder for his side.