Arsenal’s Premier League title ambitions took a serious hit on Sunday as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Manchester United at Old Trafford. Declan Rice’s second-half equaliser salvaged a point for the Gunners after Bruno Fernandes had given United the lead with a stunning free kick just before halftime.
The result leaves Arsenal 15 points behind league leaders Liverpool with only 10 games remaining, making their title pursuit look increasingly improbable. Meanwhile, United, who started the match in 15th place, moved up to 14th, still far from their usual standards.
A Tale of Two Halves
The first half was largely uninspiring, with Arsenal dominating possession but failing to create clear-cut chances. Martin Ødegaard and Leandro Trossard had half-chances, but United defended deep, limiting the visitors' attacking threat.
Just when it seemed the teams would head into the break level, United captain Bruno Fernandes stepped up with a brilliant free kick in stoppage time. His curling effort sailed over the wall and past Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya, who was caught slightly out of position.
Arsenal Fights Back
Arsenal came out stronger in the second half, showing more urgency. Rice came close with a spectacular volley that went over the bar, and Ødegaard forced a good save from Andre Onana.
At the other end, United had chances to double their lead, with Noussair Mazraoui and Joshua Zirkzee both denied by Raya’s sharp reflexes. But Arsenal’s persistence paid off in the 74th minute when Jurrien Timber picked out Rice on the edge of the box. The England international struck a powerful first-time shot past Onana, bringing Arsenal level.
The final minutes saw both teams push for a winner. Gabriel Martinelli thought he had scored but was ruled offside, while Fernandes almost won it for United with a late long-range effort that Raya saved.
United Fans Protest, Arsenal Lose Ground
Before the game, thousands of United fans protested against the Glazer family's ownership, demanding change amid rising ticket prices and underwhelming performances. New co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe was in attendance as chants of discontent echoed through Old Trafford.
For Arsenal, the draw was a major setback in their title race. Mikel Arteta’s side needed a win to keep pressure on Liverpool, but their struggles in breaking down defensive teams were exposed once again. Despite dominating possession, they lacked the cutting edge that has been missing in recent weeks. Injuries to key players like Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus only added to their frustration.
Meanwhile, United manager Ruben Amorim admitted his side played too defensively but insisted their style would evolve with time. “We don’t want to play like this, but given our circumstances, it was necessary,” he said post-match.
What’s Next?
Arsenal must regroup quickly if they are to keep their slim title hopes alive. They cannot afford any more slip-ups with Liverpool in control of the race. Meanwhile, United will look to build on this result and climb higher up the table, though their inconsistency remains a concern.
With just 10 games left, Arsenal now face an uphill battle, while United continue their search for stability.
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