Manchester United open their 2025/26 Premier League campaign with a high-stakes clash against Arsenal at Old Trafford on August 17. Last season was their worst in history, finishing 15th and missing out on European football for the first time since 2014-15 after a Europa League final defeat to Tottenham.
Summer business has sparked hope of a revival, with United adding Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Diego Leon. Promising pre-season form has hinted at a refreshed, more competitive side ready to erase the scars of last year.
Arsenal arrive with their own ambitions, having finished second for a third straight season without silverware. Six signings — including Martín Zubimendi, Viktor Gyokeres, and Noni Madueke — reflect a push to finally end their title drought.
Both sides are expected to make more moves before the transfer window closes. This early meeting offers the perfect stage for each to show intent and set the tone for their campaigns.
Old Trafford will host not just a game, but a statement — redemption for United, or a springboard to glory for Arsenal.
The Sporting News looks at the key details ahead of this game, including how to watch the match, kickoff times and the latest lineup news.
Man United vs. Arsenal live stream, TV channel
Here's how to watch this Premier League match in Australia:
TV channel: --
Live stream: Stan Sport
This game is not available for live TV broadcast in Australia. However, streaming options are available on Stan Sport.
What time does Man United vs. Arsenal kick off?
This Premier League clash takes place at Old Trafford in Manchester, England and kicks off on Sunday, August 17, at 4:30 p.m. local time.
Here's how that time translates across Australia:
| Date | Kickoff time | |
| Australian Eastern Standard Time | Monday, August 18 | 1:30 a.m. |
| Australian Central Standard Time | Monday, August 18 | 1:00 a.m. |
| Australian Western Standard Time | Sunday, August 17 | 11:30 p.m. |
Man United vs. Arsenal lineups, team news
Man United have two outstanding injuries in the squad. Lisandro Martinez suffered cruciate ligament damage earlier this year and is expected to miss the entirety of the first half of the upcoming season.
Andre Onana sustained a hamstring injury in July and had to sit out the preseason friendly matches. The Cameroonian goalkeeper is reportedly ready return to action in the Red Devils' opening Premier League match.
Sesko could get his first appearance in a red shirt, although it feels more likely he will be among the substitutes given he was not signed until after United had concluded their warm-up games.
Man United predicted starting XI (3-4-2-1, right to left): Onana (GK) — Yoro, Maguire, Shaw — Amad Diallo, Fernandes, Casemiro, Dorgu — Mbuemo, Moun — Cunha
Injured: Martínez (ACL), Onana (hamstring, doubt)
Suspended: None
Arsenal have Gabriel Jesus out due to the cruciate ligament tear back he sustained back in January. Otherwise, things look good for Mikel Arteta.
Riccardo Calafiori is hoping to be fit and ready, while new signings Zubimendi and Gyokeres should start. Leandro Trossard is a doubt with a minor groin issue.
Arsenal predicted starting XI (4-3-3, right to left): Raya(GK) — White, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly — Odegaard, Zubinmendi, Rice — Saka, Gyokeres, Martinelli
Injured: Jesus (ACL), Trossard (groin, doubt)
Suspended: None
Premier League fixture schedule this week
Saturday, August 16
- Liverpool vs. Bournemouth (5 a.m. AEST)
- Aston Villa vs. Newcastle (9:30 p.m. AEST)
Sunday, August 17
- Brighton vs. Fulham (12 a.m. AEST)
- Sunderland vs. West Ham (12 a.m. AEST)
- Tottenham vs. Burnley (12 a.m. AEST)
- Wolves vs. Man City (2:30 a.m. AEST)
- Nottingham Forest vs. Brentford (9 p.m. AEST)
- Chelsea vs. Crystal Palace (9 p.m. AEST)
Monday, August 18
- Man United vs. Arsenal (1:30 a.m. AEST)
Tuesday, August 19
- Leeds vs. Everton (5 a.m. AEST)