Mikel Arteta must outwit Ruben Amorim in one key battle that will define Arsenal vs Man United

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Arsenal will welcome Manchester United to the Emirates Stadium for a Premier League clash on Wednesday evening. 

With Liverpool having reopened their lead at the top of the table to nine points with victory over Manchester City, it is vital that Arsenal retain their recent momentum and take all three points from this encounter with the Red Devils. 

However, Ruben Amorim’s side will be on a high heading into this fixture, having thrashed Everton last time out. 

Mikel Arteta’s side will be favourites for this encounter, and the Gunners certainly mean business. Bukayo Saka has already sent a warning to Manchester United, but the North London outfit will need to be at their best at both ends of the pitch in order to secure the result they need.

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Midfield battle will decide Arsenal vs Manchester United

Whilst it is vital that the Gunners are strong in both boxes, Arteta will appreciate the importance of seizing control and winning the physical battle in the middle of the park.

Whilst Manchester United will be without Kobbie Mainoo due to suspension, the visitors still have quality options to call upon in this part of the pitch. 

Amorim’s side showed, with their demolition of Everton, that they are capable of launching attacks from deep and of building moves quickly in midfield. 

Mikel Arteta’s selection problem

Arteta must counter this threat, and how well Arsenal are able to do that will depend upon who is called upon to play at the base of the midfield trio for the home side.

Jorginho started in this role against West Ham United last time out, after Thomas Partey picked up an injury. 

The Italian veteran has not been hugely involved so far this season, but sill has plenty to offer and can be relied upon when required to step in. Arsenal fans praised Jorginho for his efforts at the London Stadium. 

If Partey is fit to face Manchester United, though, he is likely to come back into the starting XI. However, Arteta must seriously consider starting Declan Rice in this most defensive midfield role against Manchester United. 

This is arguably the former West Ham United man’s best position. His power and duel-winning ability will help Arsenal to contain the threat posed by Bruno Fernandes and Amad Diallo.