FA Cup

After Arsenal were ousted from the Champions League, the world feared another end season slump from a talented and young side. But what separates this season from the previous ones is that they are still in the box seat for completing the league and cup double even after experiencing jittering defeats at the hands of Barcelona and the less fancied Birmingham City. And a victory tonight would not only propel their confidence to sky high yet again but it would mean another realistic shot at silverware come this May. And with Manchester United suffering two massive away defeats, this can yet be the season which changes Arsenal’s future for the better.

Also Read: FA Cup Preview: Manchester United Vs Arsenal

FA Cup is a trophy which has never been taken seriously by Arsene Wenger. Yet he understands the gravity of tonight’s clash with a win being vital for their morale as well as that of the fans.  Any lack of interest in the clash can be wiped off considering the fact that tonight’s rival’s Manchester United are also their main threat to the title. And a win can, one hand be a boost to their immediate flagging fortunes whereas a loss would become disastrous for the rest of the season. Manchester United would be certainly counting on their home advantage. Alex ferguson has already stated to his players to beat Arsenal to not only win the cup but also the league. Wenger has similarly ranted his players to rally them against a formidable outfit.

The funny thing between the two teams is an uncommon one. Having been on a losing side in recent days. While Manchester United suffered a huge loss in form and were defeated controversially at Chelsea and thrashed at Anfield, Arsenal’s dream’s of a quadruple has already vanished into thin air with ouster from two competitions. But this can yet be a blessing in disguise for the Emirates outfit who have a talented squad but a relatively weak bench. Arsene Wenger knows that the heart wrenching loss at Camp Nou and the subsequent charging of UEFA for improper conduct would need to be put to rest as soon as possible.

Team News: Arsenal would be without their inspirational captain Cesc Fabregas and their goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny. Ramsey is expected to return to the squad after a long gap although his starting place is in question. Robin Van Persie is set to captain the squad in arguably one of the most important matches of his life.

Manchester United on the other hand would be without Nani, their influential playmaker who was limped off at Anfield. Nemanja Vidic is set to return but Rio Ferdinand is still a doubt.

Prediction in an Arsenal vs Manchester united game is as difficult as searching a pin in a haystack. However I believe it would be Arsenal’s day at Old Trafford. They can definitely come out with a draw which would put Arsenal in an advantageous position.

Arsenal1-1 Manchester United

Tags: Arsenal, FA Cup, Football, Manchester United, Match Preview, Wembley