Fresh from an impressive 2–0 victory over Manchester City in Michael Carrick’s first match in charge, Manchester United arrived in north London with confidence and little pressure. In contrast, all expectations were on Arsenal, who were looking to restore their seven-point lead at the top of the Premier League table following wins for Manchester City and Aston Villa earlier in the weekend.
That pressure showed from the outset.
Arsenal took the lead in the 29th minute through a Lisandro Martinez own goal, but Mikel Arteta’s side failed to build on their advantage. The Spaniard has often been criticised for asking his team to protect narrow leads, and the cautious approach backfired once again.
Just eight minutes later, United were gifted a route back into the match when Martin Zubimendi’s wayward back pass allowed Bryan Mbeumo to slot calmly past David Raya. Carrick’s side grew in belief and looked the more composed team heading into half-time.
United completed the turnaround in sensational fashion early in the second half. Patrick Dorgu unleashed a stunning volley that crashed in off the underside of the crossbar, leaving the Emirates crowd stunned. The 21-year-old followed up his goal against Manchester City with another moment of brilliance, continuing his rapid rise under Carrick.
Arsenal briefly thought they had rescued the game when Mikel Merino bundled home from a corner, once again relying on a set-piece to get back on terms. But United were not finished.
With just three minutes remaining, Matheus Cunha produced the decisive moment — whipping a fierce 25-yard strike into the bottom corner to restore United’s lead and secure a famous victory in north London.
Both managers’ team selections attracted attention. Carrick named an unchanged side from the Manchester derby win, sticking with Diogo Dalot at right-back despite Noussair Mazraoui’s return from AFCON. Arteta, meanwhile, finally dropped Viktor Gyokeres, handing Gabriel Jesus a start after his impressive Champions League performance against Inter Milan.
United defended resolutely in the closing stages as frustration spread around the Emirates, with groans greeting every delayed Arsenal throw-in and misplaced pass. Aside from a late Bukayo Saka effort that forced a sharp save, the hosts struggled to carve out clear chances.
Cunha’s late wonder goal ultimately proved decisive, completing an unforgettable turnaround and underlining the growing belief within Carrick’s Manchester United side.