Ten Hag’s United recorded a third successive win on Thursday night when beating bottom side Leicester City at the King Power Stadium and Sunday’s match will pose an altogether different test, against an Arsenal team that is top of the league (at the time of writing), with maximum points and bags of confidence.
“What we see in this moment is that they are on top because they deserve it,” Erik told us. “They’re playing good football and we are really looking forward to facing them to find a way to win.”
The boss points out his players are determined to maintain our current momentum, saying: “Not only maintain, but get better. I think that has to be our idea. Good is not good enough, we have to do better every day. Bring the maximum on the pitch every day, individually and as a team.”
The announcement comes on the eve of the Reds’ clash with Premier League rivals Arsenal at Old Trafford, this Sunday afternoon at 16:30 BST. Both of our new arrivals will be eligible to play in that eagerly anticipated fixture.
A further opportunity to perform in front of the home fans will swiftly follow when Real Sociedad visit Manchester for our Europa League opener next Thursday, 8 September at 20:00 BST.
WHO WORE 21 BEFORE ANTONY?
Antony will be the fourth South American player to wear the number 21 shirt for United, after Edinson Cavani (2021/22), Rafael da Silva (2008/09 to 2011/12) and Diego Forlan (2001/02 to 2004/05).
It was last worn by Uruguayan legend Cavani, in the second of his two campaigns at Old Trafford. The prolific striker initially wore number 7 for the Reds but he relinquished this when Cristiano Ronaldo returned to the club a few weeks into last season.
United’s other number 21s include Chinese striker Fangzhou Dong (2006/07 to 2007/08), Treble winner Henning Berg (1997/98 to 2000/01) and its first occupant, Northern Irish defender Pat McGibbon.
