Evaluating the strength of Arsenal and MU squads in the FA Cup

Arsenal, a record 14-time champions, head into this game looking to bounce back from recent setbacks, while Manchester United - the reigning FA Cup champions - will be hoping to maintain their impressive form to defend their crown.

Arsenal are currently facing a number of challenges, particularly in terms of squad. Manager Mikel Arteta will have to operate without key players such as Bukayo Saka, Ben White, Takehiro Tomiyasu and Ethan Nwaneri due to injury. These absences mean Arteta will have to be flexible in his formation, with Leandro Trossard or Gabriel Jesus likely to take on an attacking role on the right flank. In defence, the replacement of Riccardo Calafiori for Myles Lewis-Skelly is also a notable change, promising to bring youth and speed to the left flank.

Manchester United, meanwhile, head into the game in good spirits, although they still face some problems. Marcus Rashford, who is looking to leave the club, is unlikely to play due to illness. The trio of Mason Mount, Victor Lindelof and Luke Shaw are also absent through injury. However, manager Ruben Amorim appears to be happy with his attacking options, with Hojlund, Fernandes and Diallo the standout names.

Both teams have their own issues to address. Arsenal, despite playing at the Emirates, have not been consistent in cup competitions in recent seasons. Their defeat to Newcastle in the EFL Cup and poor run of form in the FA Cup since 2020 are clear examples of this. Manchester United, on the other hand, despite being the defending champions, are also in a period of uncertainty. A run of five games without a win has left fans questioning the team’s ability to maintain their form.

The upcoming match is not only a tactical confrontation but also a test of the will of both teams. Arsenal, with home advantage and a desire to assert themselves, will certainly not let MU leave with a favorable result. However, Manchester United, with the spirit of a champion, can turn difficulties into motivation to create surprises. Past encounters show that MU often have a better record than Arsenal in the FA Cup, with a notable 3-1 victory at the Emirates in 2019.

Based on current form and squad, Arsenal are considered slightly better, especially when they have bright stars like Odegaard, Rice and Martinelli. However, MU also has players who can make a difference, like Bruno Fernandes or Hojlund. The match promises to be very tense and can be decided by individual moments of brilliance.

We predict a narrow 2-1 win for Arsenal. However, in football, anything is possible. Fans of both teams are sure to witness a thrilling game where pride and honour are at the forefront.