Manchester United - Arsenal predictions and free betting tips [12/05/2024]

On Sunday, 12 May, as part of the 37th matchday of the Premier League, Manchester United will host Arsenal. Eric ten Hag's charges have suffered a humiliating 4:0 defeat at the hands of Crystal Palace on Monday, while the 'Gunners' wore down Bournemouth's defence, securing a 3:0 victory last weekend.

Manchester United

Despite their high ambitions and top-class squad, Manchester United have let their fans down this season. Having been quickly ousted from the 'top four', now Eric ten Hag's men will have to fight hard to secure a berth in the lower-tier European competitions. At present, the team is in 8th position in the Premier League table, with the same number of points as the seventh-placed Chelsea. The 'Red Devils' have only managed one victory from their last seven league games, drawing four and losing twice.

Following a 1:1 stalemate against a struggling Burnley, the Red Devils were severely beaten by Crystal Palace last Monday (4:0). In the same match, Palace's Michael Olise netted a brace, while Jean-Philippe Mateta and Tyrick Mitchell condemned the 'Red Devils' to their 13th PL defeat, setting a new unwanted record. Moreover, Man United's tally of goals conceded in all competitions this season soars to 81 – their worst record since the 1976-77 season. 

Arsenal

Arsenal have been seeking the English Premier League's title since the 2004 season, and this year, the London-based club has every reason to believe in their success. However, the Gunners' destiny is not in their own hands: they currently lead the EPL table, but Manchester City lurk just one point behind, with a game in hand. The Gunners may regret their 0:2 defeat by Aston Villa which came after a brilliant run of 11 unbeaten game weeks (10 wins and 1 draw). After that setback, Mikel Arteta's crew got back on track, defeating Wolverhampton (0:2), Chelsea (5:0), Tottenham (2:3), and Bournemouth last weekend (3:0).

Bukayo Saka scored from 12 yards to put the Gunners in front, after which Declan Rice provided an assist for Leandro Trossard and netted one himself from close range. The visitors head north having secured 22 points out of a possible 24 in away PL games since the start of this year. Dutch central defender Jurriën Timber has recently returned to training following a severe injury suffered on the first matchday, but he's unlikely to make the squad this weekend.

Head-to-Head

Back in September, Arteta's side defeated Man United 3:1 at the Emirates, but their perfect start to last year's campaign was halted right at Old Trafford with the same scoreline.

Predictions for the Manchester United vs. Arsenal match

Manchester United are deep into a crisis with every game further disappointing their loyal fans. It seems as if the players are desperately waiting for the season to end, therefore it’s unlikely that the hosts will be able to halt a title-chasing Arsenal. The Gunners simply can't afford to drop points in the remaining games and should outclass the Red Devils – backing an Arsenal win with a -1 handicap is my bet.

Total Goals Prediction

Man United are facing massive personnel issues in defence, which is translating into a lot of conceded goals: 55 in 35 matchdays. I'm confidently betting on Arsenal's ITO over 2 goals.

Corner Prediction

Motivated by their title chase, Arsenal will likely start cracking the opposition's defence from the get-go. Betting on the Gunners to win the corner match with a -2.5 handicap seems like a wise move.

Yellow Card Prediction

United will likely have to foul a lot against Arsenal's reactive flanks, which implies that the host side will earn at least three yellow cards.  

Correct Score Prediction

I'll place a bet on a precise 1:3 scoreline in favour of Arsenal.