Arsenal’s Premier League title challenge began with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Manchester United on Sunday, thanks to Riccardo Calafiori’s first-half goal.
Meanwhile, reigning world champions Chelsea were fortunate to escape Selhurst Park with a goalless draw against Crystal Palace.
After three consecutive second-place finishes, the pressure is mounting on Mikel Arteta to finally deliver Arsenal’s first league crown since the 2003/04 “Invincibles” season.
Though far from their fluent best at Old Trafford, the Gunners came away with a crucial three points—gift-wrapped by a blunder from United’s backup goalkeeper, Altay Bayindir.
The Turkish international misjudged a Declan Rice corner in the 13th minute, allowing Calafiori to nod into an open goal for the game’s only strike.
United unveiled their new £200 million ($271 million) front line of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Šeško, but were unable to breach an Arsenal defence that has been the league’s stingiest for two seasons running.
Patrick Dorgu came closest for the hosts, rattling the woodwork with a long-range effort. At the other end, Arsenal keeper David Raya made key saves to keep out Cunha and Mbeumo, preserving the clean sheet.
“We proved today we can win any game in the Premier League against a great team like Arsenal,” said United manager Ruben Amorim, despite the defeat.
