Arsenal – Manchester United: Set-Piece Sovereigns Strike Again (2-0)

Formerly, this fixture was the standard bearer for football on English shores. Now, while the fervor of the fanbases has never faded, it is a contest that carries the embers of more daring dreams and desires. But as both outfits aspired to make up for lost time, the difference maker on the scoreline was the area where Arsenal know how to take out tempo and pick their poison.

Tactical analysis and match report by Emmanuel Adeyemi-Abere.

Arsenal approached the campaign as the club that could not falter. Manchester City's collapse ought to have paved the way to a procession for the Premier League title. Rather, before kickoff, the hosts had a nine point gap to close on runaway leaders Liverpool. However, their form finally feels worthy of a serious contender. A fully fit Martin Ødegaard, orchestrator of the offense, has his feet firmly under the table. Ten goals in East London and Lisbon in the last week have lifted the mood in their camp.

One of their latest victims, Sporting, are suffering the departure of Rúben Amorim. His arrival at Manchester United ushers in a new era with expectations that ought to be kept in check. His debut in the dugout, a 1-1 draw at Ipswich . . .