According to the latest transfer news, Barcelona has finally signed Aubameyang on a free transfer from Arsenal. 

The initial plan for Barcelona was to loan Aubameyang from Arsenal and also was going to cover the full salary of the Gabon international. However, The Gunners were keen to offload the 32-year-old after stripping him of captaincy due to disciplinary issues.

Aubameyang didn't feature for the club after December 6 and was left out of their squad for their warm-weather training camp in Dubai.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang joined Arsenal in 2018 and since then he scored 92 goals in 163 games for the Gunners. Now as per the latest transfer news, after 4 years he leaves the Emirates Stadium for Barcelona on a 3 of a contract worth £350,000 per week.

Latest Transfer News: How does the Arsenal forward look now?

The Gunners have estimated to be making a saving of around £25 Million in wages with Aubameyang's transfer. But with his departure, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta will finish the season with just two strikers in his squad. On top of that, both Eddie Nketiah and Alex Lacazette will be out of contract in the summer.

However, after all the deadline day mess, Aubameyang finally made his move away from the Emirates to Camp Nou. Subsequently, He also took a pay cut for the transfer to work out.

Hello and welcome to another Premier League LIVE coverage brought to you by Sportz Point. Tonight, we will be covering the epic encounter between Arsenal and Manchester United at the iconic Emirates Stadium in London. 

What to expect?

Manchester United somehow have reignited themselves under their new charismatic coach Ruben Amorim while Arsenal looking to catch Liverpool at the top of the table to stay in the title race. As both teams have plenty to win and even more to lose, this Arsenal vs Manchester United match becomes more interesting for the fans and viewers.

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So, sit back and relax as we bring you all the build-up, updates, news and scores of the match. Enjoy the coverage.

Arsenal vs. Manchester United has been a feature of the Premier League schedule from the ferocious matches of the Arsène Wenger and Sir Alex Ferguson era to current matchups involving up-and-coming talents. This rivalry is more than just a game; it's a display of pride, football history, and the ongoing struggle for dominance between two of the best teams in England.

Match Details

Match: Arsenal vs Manchester United

Date: 04/12/2024

Time: 1:30 am (IST)

Venue: Emirates Stadium, London, England.

Match Preview:

Struggles have marked Manchester United's season, but the arrival of new manager Ruben Amorim has sparked a remarkable turnaround. The team is yet to lose under his leadership, with many attributing this resurgence to the "new manager bounce" phenomenon, where players step up to prove their worth. However, there is a noticeable improvement in United's attacking play beyond this initial lift. Amorim's high-intensity pressing and reliance on hardworking full-backs have added a new dimension to their game. Critics argue that the teams he has faced so far are not the strongest, making Arsenal his first real test.

💬 "They are in a different moment."

Ruben looks ahead to Arsenal on Wednesday 👁️#MUFC || #PL

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 3, 2024

For Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, this fixture holds special significance. In 2020, he masterminded a historic victory at Old Trafford, breaking a 14-year winless streak on United's turf, courtesy of a Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang penalty. Despite Arsenal's progress under Arteta, Manchester United remains a formidable challenge.

This season, Arsenal has shown marked improvement, thanks to smart recruitment that has made the team more fluid in transitions and versatile in positional play. The ability to invert both flanks has added unpredictability to their build-up, making them a more cohesive and dangerous side.

Amorim faces a tactical dilemma heading into this match. Should he stick to his system, knowing Arsenal dismantled a Sporting Lisbon side built on his principles, or tweak his approach to counter Arteta's strengths? Balancing his philosophy with United's gradual adaptation to his style will be critical.

⏪ Last time out against Manchester United in the Premier League...

A winner from the birthday boy! 🎂 pic.twitter.com/TLJEbWW11S

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) December 4, 2024

On paper, Arsenal appears the favourite, barring any late injuries that have frequently disrupted their season. However, if Amorim can exploit counterattacking opportunities and disrupt Arsenal's rhythm by limiting their time on the ball, United could pose significant problems.

For football enthusiasts, this midweek clash promises to be a perfect way to unwind and enjoy two contrasting styles of play from two historic clubs.

Head-to-Head Stats:

In the last 5 matches Arsenal has gotten the better of Manchester United 3 times with the last being a 1-0 win at the Old Trafford earlier in April this year, while the latter have won the other 2 leaving no room for a draw. however, the sides will face each other 3 times this season with the first one happening today. Below is the head-to-head record since 1995.

Total matches: 70

Arsenal: 23

Manchester United: 31

Draws: 16

Team News

Arsenal

While Arsenal has shown resilience in recent weeks, key players remain on the sidelines. Takehiro Tomiyasu has been absent since October 5th, following a 3-1 victory over Southampton, and Ben White is still recovering after undergoing knee surgery.

Midfield stalwart Thomas Partey, one of Arsenal's most consistent performers this season, missed the recent game against West Ham due to a recurring muscle issue. Although he seemed to have overcome this problem earlier in the season, concerns remain about his long-term fitness. The club is optimistic, however, that his absence will not be prolonged.

Additionally, both Mikel Merino and Gabriel Magalhães have been managing fitness struggles. Gabriel, in particular, has been restricted to just 45 minutes in Arsenal's last two matches. The Brazilian defender first showed signs of discomfort during the Liverpool game, where he was substituted early in the second half.

On a brighter note, Kieran Tierney's return offers a welcome boost. After a summer transfer attempt failed, he has been reintegrated into the squad and is back to full fitness. His availability comes at a critical time, with fixtures piling up and Arsenal needing all hands on deck.

Manchester United

Amorim faces a selection headache with the suspension of English midfielders Kobbie Mainoo and Lisandro Martinez, both sidelined after picking up five yellow cards. These players have been instrumental in implementing the manager's playing philosophy since his arrival. Additionally, the availability of Leny Yoro, Johnny Evans, and Victor Lindelof remains uncertain, further complicating the situation.

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Key Players to Watch

Bukayo Saka

Throughout the 2024–2025 campaign, Bukayo Saka has consolidated his place among Arsenal's and England's top players with 10 assists and 5 goals in 12 matches. His on-field leadership, creativity, and consistency have all been combined to create truly outstanding performances.

Saka's offensive contribution continues to be an essential part of Arsenal's success. With numerous goals and assists, he has played a key role in breaking down defences, particularly in close games when his ability to float past opponents and produce accurate crosses or finishes has been crucial.

Another significant strength has been his adaptability; Saka has fit in well whether used on the right flank, in a more central position, or even sliding deeper to influence build-up play.

What sets this season apart is the increased maturity in his game. Saka has taken on greater responsibility, often stepping up in crucial moments, and with his ability to maintain composure under pressure, he will definitely pose a significant threat to the United Defence.

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Amad Diallo

Under Ruben Amorim, Diallo secured his position as a vital player by putting on strong performances weekly after being overlooked in prior seasons with his involvement coming only as a squad rotation player.

United's attacking dynamics have greatly benefited from Diallo's rise and creative ability. He has shown remarkable dribbling skills, quick feet, and an eye for goal while playing mainly as a winger. Defences have struggled to keep up with his cutting inside from wide areas and unleashing strong shots or threading clever passes.

He will be an effective tactical weapon heading into this game for United

Possible Lineups

Arsenal: David Raya (GK), Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori, Jorginho, Odegaard, Rice, Martinelli, Havertz, Saka

Manchester United: Andre Onana (GK), Dalot, De Ligt, Mazroui, Shaw, Ugarte, Casemiro, Fernandes, Rashford, Zirkzee, Diallo

Raphinha scored a brace while Ferran Torres, Frenkie de Jong and Pau Victor scored a goal each to help FC Barcelona return to winning ways in La Liga after three games against Mallorca at the Son Moix Stadium on Tuesday. With this win, Hansi Flick's men extended their lead at the points table to four points.

Torres at the top for Barcelona

After three winless games, Hansi Flick changed his playing eleven for the away fixture. He included Ferran Torres in the most advanced role while benching Robert Lewandowski for the match. Inaki Peña, Jules Kounde, Pau Cubarsí, Inigo Martinez, and Alejandro Balde formed the defensive lineup for the Catalan club while Pedri, Marc Casadó, and Dani Olmo were given the responsibility of controlling the midfield.

Captain Raphinha and Lamine Yamal continued as the offensive players for Flick.

Barcelona looked into control from the minute go by trapping the home side offside quite a few times before scoring in the first real opportunity they got. In the 11th minute of the match, Ferran Torres took advantage of a mix-up in defence between Valjent and Mojica and scored the first goal of the night for Barcelona.

Eight minutes later, Torres could have doubled the lead, but Mallorca goalkeeper Leo Roman stopped the Spaniard's efforts from a great ball by Balde.

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Yamal and Raphinha ripped through the defence in second half

However, after the goal, the Mallorcan defence tightened up to block countless attacks from the visitors and frustrate them till they found their way back right before the first half. In the 44th minute of the match, Pablo Maffeo got behind the Barcelona defence and found Vedat Muriqi with a great pass. The Kosovan striker did the rest to level the scoreboard.

Right after the second-half break, Barcelona looked at their best with both Lamine Yamal and Raphinha causing a few problems for the opponent's defenders. In the 53rd minute, Olmo found Lamine Yamal inside the box and Mojica fouled the Spaniard to hand Barcelona a penalty. Raphinha stepped up and restored the lead for his team in the 55th minute.

In the 74th minute, Lamine Yamal made a picture-perfect assist from right to find Raphinha in the far post for Barcelona's third goal of the night; his 11 of the season in 16 league games. With the game nearly in the pocket, Flick made a few substitutions and Frenkie de Jong found the net coming off from the bench. He scored Barca's fourth goal from a rebound ball in the 79th minute.

Pau Victor, another sub for the La Liga table topper, rounded off the score line after an interception. With this win, Barcelona returned to winning ways in the Spanish league after three games.

Barcelona are currently leading the league table with 37 points after 16 games while Real Madrid are following them with 33 points after 14 games.
 

The desire for fame frequently pushes athletes to pursue new opportunities, sometimes at the expense of loyal supporters. A few former Arsenal players have gone on to win the Premier League trophy with other teams, reaching the highest level of English football. 

Their experiences serve as an example of the unpredictability of football, where ambition and loyalty frequently clash. In this feature, we look into the stories of five players who donned the red and white before leaving their names in Premier League history elsewhere. 

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Robin Van Persie: Manchester United - 2012/2013

One of the most prolific forwards of his generation, Robin van Persie was renowned for his impeccable positioning, precise finishing, and powerful volleys from every angle. After joining Arsenal in 2004 for £2.75 million, a sum well below Feyenoord's initial asking price of £5 million, he quickly made his mark. 

Manager Arsène Wenger had a vision for Van Persie, converting him from a left winger to a central striker, a transition Wenger had successfully made with Thierry Henry. When Henry left for Barcelona in 2007, Van Persie stepped up as Arsenal's primary goal-scorer.

By the start of the 2011–12 season, Van Persie had taken over as captain following Cesc Fàbregas's move to Barcelona. That season, he finished as the Premier League's top scorer with 30 goals, and in the process, became Arsenal’s eighth all-time leading scorer with 132 goals.

In August 2012, Van Persie made a high-profile move to Manchester United, with the clubs agreeing on a £22.5 million deal, potentially rising by £1.5 million depending on United’s success in the Premier League or Champions League.

Just a few months later, in April 2013, Van Persie sealed his place in United's history, scoring a stunning first-half hat-trick against Aston Villa that clinched their 20th league title with four matches to spare—his first and only Premier League championship. He would go on to leave the club in 2015 after three successful seasons.

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Cesc Fabregas: Chelsea- 2014/2015

Another player with strong roots in the club he made the move from Barcelona in September 2003 after noticing that he was going to find it difficult to break into the Barcelona first team.

He made his debut for the team not long after, on 28 October 2003, in a League Cup tie at home to Rotherman United. In doing so, he became Arsenal's then-youngest-ever first-team player, aged 16 years and 177 days.

Following the club's move to the Emirates Stadium in the summer of 2006, Cesc Fàbregas was handed the iconic number 4 shirt, which Patrick Vieira left vacant after his transfer to Juventus the year before. Fàbregas became a regular in the heart of the midfield, often partnering with Gilberto Silva. 

On 24 November 2008, after 14 league matches in the 2008–09 season, Cesc Fàbregas succeeded William Gallas as captain. 

On 15 August 2011, Barcelona secured his signature for an initial €29 million, with an additional €5 million in potential add-ons. Over the five years leading up to his departure from Arsenal, Fàbregas created 466 goal-scoring opportunities, registered 86 assists, and netted 48 goals.

On 3 May 2015, he won his first Premier League title at the ninth attempt, following a 1–0 home win over Crystal Palace.

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Ashley Cole: Chelsea- 2009/2010

Ashley Cole is widely remembered for his drawn-out contract dispute during which he sought to leave Arsenal. A key member of the iconic Invincible Squad, he won numerous trophies with the North London club.

His transfer to Chelsea caused significant disappointment among loyal fans, but ultimately, it proved to be a wise move. At Chelsea, he secured the Premier League title under Carlo Ancelotti in the 2009/10 season and lifted the Champions League trophy in 2012. 

Notably, he played in all 38 league matches during the 2010/11 season and earned the Chelsea F.C. Player's Player of the Year award for the second time. Cole is widely regarded as one of the Premier League's greatest fullbacks.

Gael Clichy: Manchester City- 2011/2012

Gaël Clichy joined the club in 2003 from Cannes as a young and promising left-back. Initially a backup to Ashley Cole, Clichy seized the opportunity to cement his place in the starting XI following Cole’s move to Chelsea in 2006. Known for his pace, work ethic, and defensive reliability, he became a mainstay in Arsenal’s backline.

In 2011, Clichy moved to Manchester City in search of new challenges and greater opportunities for silverware. His arrival coincided with City’s rise to prominence under Roberto Mancini. At City, Clichy continued to impress with his defensive prowess and tactical awareness.

Clichy’s time at Manchester City proved successful, as he contributed to the club’s first Premier League title in 2011/12, He added another Premier League title in the 2013/14 season, along with two League Cup victories in 2014 and 2016. Over six seasons, Clichy made over 200 appearances for City.

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Samir Nasri: Manchester City- 2011/2012

The Frenchman brought flair and inventiveness to Arsène Wenger's midfield when he made a move from Marseille in 2008. Nasri immediately made a name for himself as a vital player in the team thanks to his technical proficiency, close control, and versatility in attacking roles.

He scored 15 goals in all competitions during his stellar 2010–11 season, including several incredible solo efforts. It was one of his best seasons to date. Because of his impact on the squad, he was nominated for both the PFA Player of the Year and PFA Young Player of the Year awards that season.

Despite his achievements, Nasri's time in London was characterized by the team's inability to win any trophies. When Arsenal was going through a transition in 2011, Nasri decided to depart in search of better opportunities elsewhere. He made a high-profile move to Manchester City.

Nasri was instrumental in helping City win their first Premier League championship in forty-four years during his debut season (2011–12). He cemented his position in the club's history by providing a vital assist for Sergio Agüero's historic last-minute victory against QPR. In the 2013–14 season, Nasri was instrumental in helping City win the League Cup and another Premier League championship.

Luis Díaz netted a hat-trick to keep Liverpool at the top of the league table with a flawless record, while AC Milan shocked Real Madrid on their home turf. Celtic, Borussia Dortmund, PSV Eindhoven, GNK Dinamo, and Monaco also secured wins.

Meanwhile, Viktor Gyökeres scored three goals as Sporting CP pulled off the night’s biggest upset against Manchester City. Sit back and relax, as we bring all the updates of the match week 4 of the UEFA Champions League 2024 - 25 league phase round.

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Tuesday night's action

Sparta Praha 1-2 Brest

The away team was in fine form tonight, causing a consecutive defeat to Sparta Praha. Edimilson Fernandes opened the scoring in the 37th minute to give Brest an early advantage, which they doubled in the second half courtesy of an own goal by Sparta midfielder Kairinen in the 79th minute.

Victor Olatunji ensured that the visiting team did not leave with a clean sheet when he fired home a left-footed shot to the center of the goal at stoppage time.

Feyenoord 1-3 RB Salzburg

It was a tough night for Feyenoord, who lost Nadje to a red card in the 45th minute, allowing Salzburg to take advantage. Striker Karim Konate seized the opportunity, scoring twice.

Moussa pulled one back for Feyenoord in the 81st minute, but Salzburg wasn’t finished; Guindo struck in the 86th minute to secure a comfortable victory for the visitors.

Stuttgart 0-2 Atalanta