In the midst of a mini-crisis the last place Arsene Wenger would want to take his Arsenal side to Old Trafford to face arch rivals Manchester United.

The champions have started the season off at break neck speed sweeping all before them. West Brom and Tottenham have felt the full force of United’s youthful side. With five first team players out injured Sir Alex Ferguson is putting his trust in academy graduates Tom Cleverly and Danny Wellbeck as well as summer signings Phil Jones, David de Gea and Ashley Young to deliver the goods in the early stages of the season. It seems like a new beginning at Old Trafford with the likes of Cleverly and Wellbeck adding some youthful exuberance to Ferguson’s side. Similarities to the 1995/96 double winning side, with Wayne Rooney taking up the role Eric Cantona, are strikingly evident. Confidence is booming and they are certainly playing Arsenal at the right time.

The Gunners have suffered a torrid start to the season and are without a win in their opening two games after losing to Liverpool at the Emirates last week. With Samir Nasri and Cesc Fabregas gone,  four first team players out injured and Gervinho suspended Wenger is down to the bare bones. His team is littered with young, inexperienced players and the worry is that they will crumble under the pressure at Old Trafford on Sunday. Experience heads such as Robin Van Persie, Thomas Rosicky and Bacary Sagna will be vital to ensuring the younger players keep their heads and are focused come Sunday afternoon.

Both teams are going through transitional periods although at different ends of the spectrum. United are rampant whilst Arsenal are short of just about everything at the moment. The home side should win this one without complication.

Key Players

[player_profile slug=”wayne-rooney” align=”left”]Wayne Rooney – Started the season off in goalscoring form and looks back to his best. He and Wellbeck have the makings of a devastating partnership and Rooney will be tasked with keeping the youngster in check on Sunday.

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[player_profile slug=”robin-van-persie” align=”left”]Robin Van Persie – New club captain at the Emirates he will need to be at his inspirational best to Arsenal they leave Old Trafford with a point at least. Vital to keeping the younger players heads and focus up in what will be a difficult afternoon.

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Verdict: 2-0