The Case for Arsenal: The Gunners have turned the Emirates into an impregnable fortress, boasting an 82% win rate on home soil. Their defensive metrics are staggering—conceding just 0.45 goals per game at home and facing zero shots on target in their last two outings. With Saliba and Gabriel marshaling a watertight backline, and an attack that averages 2.36 goals per home game, Arsenal have the structure and discipline to suffocate any opponent that visits North London.

The Case for Manchester United: The “Carrick bounce” is real. United arrive with renewed belief after a tactical masterclass saw them dismantle Manchester City 2-0. Despite poor away form generally, their counter-attacking potential is undeniable, with pacey outlets like Mbeumo and Diallo perfectly suited to exploit high lines. If they can replicate the defensive resilience shown in the derby and catch Arsenal on the break, they have the firepower to cause a shock.

The Verdict: It’s the immovable object against the rejuvenated force. Can Arsenal’s elite defensive structure extinguish the spark of United’s new era, or will Carrick’s counter-attacking blueprint claim another massive scalp in North London?