Arsenal sit top of everything that moves, but Manchester United still refuse to be convenient opponents.

In this Five Aside x SoccerTakesWithAK crossover, we preview Arsenal vs Manchester United and ask the real questions: does form actually matter in big games, why United suddenly become competent when written off, and why Arsenal fans are confident… but never comfortable.

We break down tactical strengths, set-piece battles, Carrick’s counter-attacking blueprint, Arsenal’s defensive control, and United’s attacking threats. The episode spirals into a full combined XI debate, heated arguments over defenders, midfield control, Saka’s inevitability, Bruno’s disappearing acts, and bold scoreline predictions — including bets involving haircuts.

It’s chaos, confidence, caution, and classic Premier League heritage.

⏱️ Timestamps

00:00 Introductions & big-game vibes

01:00 “Form goes out the window” — why United are dangerous

02:15 Arsenal confidence vs realism (draw talk already?)

04:20 Why United feel no pressure going into this game

05:50 United confidence & Emirates history

07:20 Why Arsenal still haven’t “spanked” United

08:15 Arsenal dominance vs United resilience debate

09:10 Arsenal strengths: defense, control & tempo

10:45 Set pieces as Arsenal’s biggest weapon

12:20 Carrick’s United: counter-attack & compact shape

14:10 United attacking threats & Saka problem

15:45 Defensive injuries & United backline confidence

17:15 Coaching influence: Carrick, Steve Holland & Ole links

18:40 Combined XI challenge begins

19:20 Goalkeeper & defense arguments (Saliba vs everyone)

22:00 Full-back chaos & heated debates

23:15 Midfield picks: Rice, Bruno, Zubimendi

24:50 Front three arguments & Saka supremacy

27:30 Final combined XI agreed

28:45 Score predictions & bold takes

31:00 Bets, haircuts & unhinged confidence

33:00 Final thoughts on Saka, Bruno & game-deciders

35:00 Outro & post-match consequences teased