Manchester United take on Arsenal at The Emirates in just the fourth game of the season in an early Premier League clash.
Arsenal are set to be without £45 million striker Gabriel Jesus when the two competitors face off on September 3.
Jesus has suffered a recurrence of a knee injury which saw him miss time last season. Sky Sports report he has already undergone surgery and will miss ‘a few weeks’.
This is expected to see him miss the match with Manchester United, which is the fourth game of the league season, and takes place in just one month.
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Injuries already impacting both teams
Despite the best preparations from clubs, the unwanted reality of injuries has already reared its ugly head.
Manchester United beat Arsenal in pre-season, partly with the help of 18-year-old wonderkid Kobbie Mainoo
Mainoo was subsequently injured against Real Madrid and faces a spell on the sidelines. He could miss the opening two months to the season.
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Not necessarily ‘advantage United’
Gabriel Jesus being absent for the Manchester United game should play into the Red Devils’ favour, however, Arsenal won the last game at the Emirates against us without him.
Eddie Nketiah scored an injury time winner and he is expected to lead the line. An alternative is Kai Havertz, who was blasted by MUTV commentator Ben Thornley in pre-season as ‘rubbish’.
Whoever lines up front for the Gunners, it will be a tough game. We just hope United can stay as injury-free as possible.