Manchester United’s blockbuster clash with Arsenal headlines the Premier League’s opening weekend, but up to six stars could be sidelined at Old Trafford on Sunday.
The Red Devils are sweating over the fitness of goalkeeper Andre Onana ahead of their season opener against Mikel Arteta’s side. The Cameroon international has been absent throughout the entire pre-season campaign and remains locked in a desperate race against time to feature in United’s curtain-raiser.
A troublesome hamstring problem has kept him on the sidelines, forcing Turkish goalkeeper Altay Bayindir to deputise during the summer.
Bayindir may well retain his place between the sticks against the Gunners – the very opponents he starred against during last season’s triumphant FA Cup final victory.
However, Onana delivered an encouraging fitness update earlier this month, hinting at a potential return. He said: “I feel good, I feel great. It’s been a few difficult weeks, but yeah, hopefully, I will be back for the start of the season.”
Amorim faces a defensive headache with several key backline players unavailable, including the injured Lisandro Martinez. The Argentina centre-back has endured persistent fitness woes and despite travelling with the squad for their US tour, no clear timeline has been established for his comeback.
Noussair Mazraoui has also not been spotted in training sessions following his enforced half-time withdrawal during United’s pre-season curtain-raiser against Leeds in Stockholm last month.
The nature of his injury remains undisclosed, but his continued absence suggests worrying news for the United camp. Joshua Zirkzee, who has been linked with a move away from United amid the influx of new attacking talent, is uncertain to play against Arsenal. The Dutchman stated in July that he was aiming for a return in the opening match.
Arsenal, on the other hand, who drew this fixture last season, will be eager to start off on the right foot. Mikel Arteta’s squad could potentially include several of their new signings.
Viktor Gyokeres is expected to lead the attack, which is a bonus considering Gabriel Jesus is still out with a severe knee injury.
The Brazilian has been sidelined since early 2025, leaving Arsenal scrambling for players to lead their attack and prompting their pursuit of Gyokeres. Leandro Trossard is one player who has stepped up when needed, but the Belgian is also struggling with fitness.
He was not included in the squad on Saturday as Arsenal defeated Athletic Bilbao 3-0 in their final pre-season friendly. However, Arteta is quietly confident he could have him available.
“He had a little niggle in the groin – but he should be fine,” the Arsenal boss commented.
