Manchester United are into the fourth round of the FA Cup having beaten Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium – and taken a dig at Mikel Arteta.
As far as potential third round ties went, a trip to Arsenal was arguably the most difficult tie possible.
Manchester United, attempting to retain the FA Cup after the success in May, were drawn at the Emirates Stadium as Ruben Amorim faced a real test.
United were strong at Anfield last week though and took that approach into Sunday’s cup tie, going into half time at 0-0.
Bruno Fernandes rifled United in front with a superb strike before Diogo Dalot was given his marching orders for two yellow cards.
Gabriel Magalhaes equalised and Arsenal laid siege to the United goal but continued to miss chance after chance, sending the game to extra time and penalties.
Manchester United poke fun at Mikel Arteta
United still posed a threat on the counter but fans were treated to five brilliant penalties from Bruno, Amad Diallo, Leny Yoro, Lisandro Martinez and Joshua Zirkzee.
Altay Bayindir’s save from Kai Havertz ultimately sent United through in a real battling victory in the capital.
Amorim can be proud of his players with United really digging in for each other and getting the job done.
United posted a one-word verdict after beating Arsenal, simply stating ‘justice’ on X.
United have now added another post and this one seems to be pointed towards Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta.
Arteta was asked about the difference between the Premier League ball and the Carabao Cup ball in midweek and he highlighted that the Carabao Cup ball ‘flies different’.
Arteta wasn’t exactly complaining but merely answering a question after Arsenal’s 2-0 home defeat to Newcastle United.
United have now posted a photo of Bruno opening the scoring alongside the caption ‘this ball flies a lot’.
That certainly seems pointed towards Arteta and his previous comments about balls flying differently, especially as Mitre created a special ball for the occasion.
- READ MORE: What Man Utd fans were chanting at Arsenal supporters during FA Cup clash must have been infuriating
What next for Manchester United?
A draw at Liverpool and a win at Arsenal certainly allows United to build some momentum.
United now host Southampton on Thursday night as part of a home triple-header with Brighton and Hove Albion and then Rangers to come.
United finish January on the road at Fulham and FCSB with Amorim no doubt hoping to continue this positive feeling.
In the FA Cup, United have been drawn against Leicester City in the fourth round.
Ruud van Nistelrooy will return to Old Trafford with the tie to be play between February 7 and February 10.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
