Combined XI: Arsenal vs Man United – Gyokeres & Cunha snubbed, Captain Fernandes leads the team

Manchester United head to the Emirates Stadium on Sunday for a blockbuster Premier League clash against Arsenal that could shape the title race and the top-four battle.

Arsenal arrive with one hand firmly on the league trophy, boasting a commanding seven-point lead at the summit.

United sit fifth and securing UEFA Champions League football would represent a significant step forward in their rebuilding process.

With a clash between two of the top English teams, we have assembled a combined XI based on current form, impact and availability.

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Goalkeeper

David Raya

Raya has 11 clean sheets to his name and has conceded only 14 goals.

Although Senne Lammens has shown encouraging signs, Raya’s consistency and authority make him the clear choice between the posts.

Defence

Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Gabriel, Luke Shaw

Timber edges the right-back slot ahead of Ben White and Diogo Dalot thanks to his composure, versatility and defensive intelligence.

Arsenal are enjoying a stellar season, and that is largely due to their defence. The pairing of Saliba and Gabriel deserve to be at the heart of defence.

Luke Shaw earns the nod at left-back after starting every league game for United this season, edging out Patrick Dorgu due to his superior defensive discipline.

Midfield

Martin Zubimendi, Declan Rice, Bruno Fernandes

Zubimendi has been one of the signings of the season, dictating tempo with ease and elevating Arsenal’s control in midfield.

His presence has unlocked the best version of Declan Rice, who now operates with greater freedom as a powerful box-to-box force.

Bruno Fernandes is one of the best attacking midfielders in the world. With 14 goals and assists in the league this term, his inclusion is beyond debate. He is the perfect leader for this star-studded XI.

Attack

Bryan Mbeumo, Leandro Trossard, Benjamin Sesko

The right flank is overflowing with talent, including Bukayo Saka and Amad Diallo, but Mbeumo gets the nod for his directness and consistency.

The Cameroonian has registered eight goal contributions and remains one of the most threatening forwards in the Premier League.

Trossard faced serious questions about his future last summer, but the 31-year-old has silenced critics with performances worthy of his finest form.

Matheus Cunha and Patrick Dorgu were close contenders for the left-sided role but ultimately fell just short.

With only one league goal all season, Gabriel Martinelli never seriously entered the discussion.

Benjamin Sesko leads the line after contributing four goals and one assist, offering intelligent link-up play and a constant physical presence.

The 22-year-old has proven to be a shrewd addition, influencing games beyond the scoresheet with his movement and hold-up play.

Some Arsenal fans may argue for Viktor Gyokeres, but the numbers and his impact simply do not justify his inclusion.

While he has scored five league goals, two have come from the penalty spot. Crucially, he has not found the net from open play in the league since 1 November.

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .