Arsenal secured a commanding 2-0 victory over Manchester United on Wednesday night, with goals from Jurrien Timber and William Saliba. The match marked Ruben Amorim’s first defeat as United’s head coach since taking over from Erik ten Hag.
Saliba’s goal became a major talking point online after the French defender bundled the ball into the net with his backside, sparking widespread reactions.
The Gunners demonstrated their prowess in set pieces, scoring both goals from corners to hand Manchester United a tough loss and reaffirm their dominance in the Premier League clash.
Arsenal Edge Past Manchester United in Cagey Encounter, Saliba’s Unorthodox Goal Steals the Show
Arsenal secured a 2-0 win over Manchester United in a tightly contested match, with the Gunners dominating possession for most of the game. Ruben Amorim made six changes to the squad that thrashed Everton 4-0 on Sunday, but his side struggled to match Arsenal’s tempo.
Arsenal’s Setpiece Prowess Shines Again
Despite their attacking intent, it was Arsenal’s well-rehearsed set pieces that made the difference. In the 54th minute, Jurrien Timber capitalized on Declan Rice’s corner, flicking the ball past Andre Onana at the far post.
The second goal, however, stole the spotlight. Bukayo Saka delivered a corner, which Thomas Partey headed back into the danger zone. The ball ricocheted off William Saliba’s backside and into the net, sparking widespread reactions and cementing Arsenal’s victory.
The win highlighted Arsenal’s continued dominance in utilizing set-piece routines, a key strength under Mikel Arteta in recent seasons.
The Ruben Amorim effect is losing its sparkle 🥹⭐
📺 Stream #ARSMUN on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/LUdhoXQATa
— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) December 4, 2024
Arteta’s Black Sweater said,
“Saliba’s backside has more goals than Savinho and Doku.”
Odegoat said,
“William Saliba, you put the ARSSE in ARSENAL”
Bri said,
“The ball hits Saliba’s backside and he celebrates like he’s scored a screamer.”
Despite the win, Arsenal dropped to third after Chelsea beat Southampton 5-1 to gain a better goal difference than their London rivals. United, who started the day in 9th, dropped to 11th.