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By BEN BAGLEY Published: 20: 00 AEDT, 25 January 2026 | Updated: 20: 00 AEDT, 25 January 2026 61 View comments Manchester United will be looking to build on last weekend’s dramatic derby day victory when they head to the Emirates this Sunday. United legend Roy Keane was quick to question interim boss Michael Carrick’s credentials, who is overseeing his second caretaker spell at the club. There is no better test for Carrick than an away day at top of the table Arsenal, a side undefeated in 12 and mounting their best title challenge since the Invincibles season. But how many United players have shown the form this season to make it into Sofascore’s combined XI? Michael Carrick will take charge of his second game as Man United's head coach against Arsenal on Saturday But who makes a a Red Devils and Gunners combined XI? Daily Mail Sport takes a look Having established himself as Arsenal’s number one, Raya has developed into a world-class keeper, boasting the best clean sheet record in the league. The Spaniard has pulled off a number of stunning stops, saving his side’s bacon on several occasions, including a spectacular match-winning save against Brighton. Sofascore rating: 6. 89 The Dutchman had a tough start to life at Arsenal, suffering a knee injury in his first competitive game which saw him sidelined for over 8 months. Timber is now one of the first names on the team sheet, currently deputising for the injured Riccardo Calafiori at left-back and displaying the kind of versatility that makes him one of the best full-backs in the league. Sofascore rating: 6. 98 Saliba has earned his reputation as one of the continent’s finest centre halves, attracting interest from Real Madrid in the summer. The 24-year-old Frenchman extended his contract at the beginning of the season, committing his future to the Emirates where Arteta believes he can ‘become the best’ defender in world football. Sofascore rating: 7. 04 Gabriel has grown into a world-class centre half, becoming Saliba’s equal and a leader in the Arsenal dressing room. The six-foot-three Brazilian also poses a threat at the other end of the pitch from his side’s notoriously dangerous set pieces, clinching a potentially decisive last minute winner against Newcastle and scoring 2 in his last 4 for the Gunners. Sofascore rating: 7. 31 Patrick Dorgu was Ruben Amorim’s first major signing in the last January transfer window and, after a shaky start to life at the club, has become a fan favourite at Old Trafford. His attacking impetus could prove critical and the young Dane is sure to be full of confidence after scoring in the Manchester derby. Sofascore rating: 6. 91 Many felt that United’s key man was stifled by Ruben Amorim’s rigid system in which the Portuguese playmaker was forced to play in a deeper role. Freed from the shackles of his former manager, Fernandes picked up the Man of the Match award last weekend and fans will be hoping he continues to thrive in a more attacking role under his new boss. Sofascore rating: 7. 60 It’s becoming increasingly clear why Mikel Arteta and his team worked so hard to bring Martin Zubimendi to the club in the summer, fighting off Liverpool and Real Madrid to the signing of the Basque midfielder. Zubimendi has featured in all of Arsenal’s Premier League games this season, stabilising the midfield and allowing Declan Rice to play with more freedom. Sofascore rating: 7. 10 Sofascore ranks Declan Rice as Arsenal’s best player this season and it would be hard for anyone to make a case against the England international. The former West Ham man has contributed four goals and eight assists in all competitions this season, building on a fantastic first year at the club and making his £105 million price tag look like the bargain of the century. Sofascore rating: 7. 54 Arsenal poster boy Bukayo Saka recently put pen to paper on a deal keeping him in North London until 2031 where he will undoubtedly cement his status as a legend in N7. The arrival of Noni Madueke from Chelsea has given the winger much needed respite and his fresh legs will be essential if he is to fire the Gunners to the title this season. Sofascore rating: 7. 27 It’s fair to say Manchester United’s dealings in the transfer window over the last decade have produced mixed results, but Bryan Mbeumo has undoubtedly been a great signing. The former Brentford man will be looking to build momentum after returning from AFCON and looked the most dangerous last time the sides met on the opening day of the season, breaching Arsenal’s usually impenetrable back line on several occasions. Sofascore rating: 7. 02 Completing the Sofascore frontline is Matheus Cunha, another of United’s marquee signings this season. The Brazilian has shown glimpses of his form at Wolves last season and will be keen to kick on with a strong chance of lining up for his country at the World Cup this summer. Sofascore rating: 7. 02
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