Arsenal began their Premier League campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Manchester United on Sunday, while Chelsea shared the spoils in a competitive 0-0 draw against Crystal Palace.
At Old Trafford, the Gunners were rewarded for their defensive discipline and patience. Riccardo Calafiori scored the game’s only goal in the 13th minute, heading home after United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir failed to deal with Declan Rice’s corner.
“Big result,” said Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. “First game of the season at Old Trafford when you feel they are building something.”
United, under Ruben Amorim, handed debuts to their £200 million attacking trio of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko. Despite flashes of promise, they were denied by Arsenal’s well-drilled defence and a strong display from goalkeeper David Raya, who saved efforts from Cunha and Mbeumo. Patrick Dorgu went closest for United, hitting the post with a powerful strike.
“We proved today we can win any game in the Premier League against a great team like Arsenal,” Amorim said. “We deserved a different result and we need to move forward.”
At Stamford Bridge, Chelsea, still buoyed by their Club World Cup triumph last month, produced a solid performance but could not find a way through a disciplined Palace side.
The visitors had an early goal from Eberechi Eze ruled out by VAR for obstruction, while new Chelsea signing Estevao almost grabbed a late winner. Despite their dominance in possession, the Blues had to settle for a point.
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca praised his players’ effort given a shorter pre-season schedule. “They played about eight (pre-season) games, we played just two so we tried our best. Apart from the first-half free-kick, we didn’t concede any chances,” he said.
Palace boss Oliver Glasner, meanwhile, lauded his players’ commitment, including Marc Guehi and Eze, who have been linked with moves away. “As long as they are 100 percent committed, they will play as they are so good,” Glasner said.
Elsewhere, Nottingham Forest started brightly with a 3-1 victory over Brentford. Chris Wood struck twice, alongside a debut goal from Dan Ndyoe, ensuring a strong start for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side. Brentford’s Igor Thiago netted a late penalty, but it was little consolation for new manager Keith Andrews.
“It was a very good first half. The combinations were really good, beautiful goals,” said Nuno.
Written By Rodney Mbua
