Theo Walcott Tips Arsenal to Edge Past Manchester United in Sunday Showdown

Former Arsenal winger Theo Walcott has backed his old club to claim a narrow win over Manchester United when the two Premier League giants meet on Sunday.

Speaking on the It’s Called Soccer! podcast, Walcott predicted a 1-0 victory for the Gunners, with Brazilian forward Gabriel Martinelli getting the decisive goal. He also expects Arsenal to dominate possession and keep things tight at the back.

“I will go for a 1-0 win for Arsenal and I’m going for a Martinelli goal,” Walcott said. “I think they’re going to expose United with a domination of having the ball and I just think it’ll be a break goal and Arsenal’s defence will be pretty solid.”

Arsenal head into the clash with high expectations after finishing second last season, narrowly missing out on the title to Liverpool. With Mikel Arteta’s squad looking sharper and more determined, they are once again among the frontrunners for the championship.

Manchester United, on the other hand, are on a mission to erase the memory of a dreadful campaign last season, where they ended in 15th place. New summer signings have injected hope into the Red Devils’ camp, with the club targeting a top-four finish.

Opinion:
On paper, Walcott’s prediction makes sense. Arsenal’s high-tempo, possession-heavy football under Arteta is tailor-made to exploit a United side still searching for stability. Martinelli’s pace against United’s backline could be lethal, especially if the Gunners press high and force turnovers.

However, history has taught us that Arsenal–United games often defy the form book. United’s new signings could spring a surprise if they click quickly — and Old Trafford pride is always a dangerous weapon.

Still, if Arsenal truly want to prove they are more than “title challengers” and instead “title winners,” this is exactly the type of game they must win… and Walcott’s 1-0 prediction might just be the blueprint.