Last updated on August 20, 2025
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The new signings brought energy, invention, and courage.
Image credit: TC
Manchester United kicked off their Premier League season with a narrow 1–0 defeat to Arsenal at Old Trafford.
The result leaves a sour taste but not without silver linings.
United came into this match with high expectations having made several reinforcements to key areas.
For all the frustration of conceding from a goalkeeper’s error, the performances of United’s new boys provided flashes of promise.
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These are signs that this side could evolve into something more dangerous as the season unfolds.
Cunha: Fearless Energy Up Front
Matheus Cunha was arguably United’s brightest spark.
Fearless with the ball, relentless without it, and always looking for an opening, he looked like a player already hungry to justify his signing.
Twice he forced David Raya into sharp saves.
While he didn’t get his goal, Cunha’s willingness to take responsibility stood out in a team that has often lacked cutting edge in big games.
Mbeumo: Adding Sharpness to the Attack
Bryan Mbeumo’s debut was just as encouraging.
Quick, direct, and unafraid to take on defenders, he gave Arsenal problems whenever United broke forward.
His link-up play showed promise, and his work rate matched the intensity Ruben Amorim demands.
Speaking about Mbuemo, Tower spoke on x:
“He’s really dangerous in that right wing but we need Sesko in center to convert his crosses.”
On another day, his contributions might have led to a goal.
Dorgu: Young but Composed
Patrick Dorgu might not have been the headline signing, but he showed exactly why he was brought in — balance.
Strong in the tackle, disciplined in positioning, and even adventurous going forward.
His effort that struck the outside of the post was a reminder he isn’t just a defensive option.
For a debut in such a high-pressure fixture, Dorgu looked remarkably composed.
Sesko: A Taste of What’s to Come
Benjamin Sesko had only a cameo, but there were flashes of his physical presence and ability to hold up the ball.
He didn’t get enough time to change the game, yet his introduction hinted at a different attacking dimension United could use in future matches.
The Bitter Note: Bayindir’s Error
Unfortunately, the narrative of the match was shaped by Altay Bayindir’s mistake.
His decision-making that led to Arsenal’s goal got pundits, Roy Keane and Micah Richard debating fiercely.
"Micah, this is big boy stuff!"
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) August 17, 2025
Roy Keane and Micah Richards trade blows over Altay Bayındır's decision-making for Arsenal's goal… 😬 pic.twitter.com/6B0Cb5NpCH
For all the optimism about United’s new boys, one lapse cost United dearly.
It’s a reminder that new signings don’t always settle smoothly — and that reliability between the posts remains as crucial as flair up front.
Verdict: A Defeat, but Not Deflating
Yes, United lost. But unlike past seasons where opening-day defeats felt like confirmation of decline, this one carried a different tone.
The new signings brought energy, invention, and courage.
They didn’t shrink under the spotlight.
If anything, they gave United fans reason to believe that with time and chemistry, this team can sharpen its edge and pose a real threat in the months to come.
