A question both managers will be asking themselves and taking both of their philosophies into consideration and past performances, both managers may opt for control. Louis Van Gaal broke from his normal strategy of possession based football last time out against Arsenal, although it is debatable whether he decided on that or Arsenal forced him to change plans, and won the game 2-1. However many would consider the result lucky and if the Gunners had finished their early chances the game could have been dead and buried by half time. Expect then United to go head to head with Arsenal in terms of ball retention, particularly with them being at home. Build up will be slow from them as they look to pick killer passes through the defensive line. With Arsenal fantastic in possession however, there will come points when United do sit back and soak up pressure but they re sure to have more of the ball than they did at the Emirates back in November. After their 2-1 defeat to Tottenham a few weeks ago, Arsene Wenger has a tactical dilemma on his hands. After much criticised performances against the 'big teams' Arsenal set up with a counter attacking style against Manchester City this season and left the Etihad with all three points after an efficient display. Having tried the same against Spurs though they came up short and with the Gunners enjoying so much domination at home to United this campaign, attempting to control the game may be a risk worth taking despite the outcome of the reverse fixture.
Having recently graduated from university, I have joined WhatCulture as a contributor to cover sport, WWE, TV and film. Formerly published nationally in the Guardian and Independent.
