United’s progression not a foregone conclusion

 
Adrian Musolino Columnist

By , 29 Apr 2009 Adrian Musolino is a Roar Expert

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Manchester United's Patrice Evra jumps for the ball. AP Photo/Jon Super

Manchester United's Patrice Evra jumps for the ball. AP Photo/Jon Super

Following their remarkable comeback against Tottenham in the EPL, 2-0 down and going on to win 5-2, there is an air of invincibility around Manchester United. Their quest for quadruple titles may have come unstuck in the FA Cup, but few are betting against them in the EPL, and to progress to the UCL final.

However, far from the easy path into Champions League final that many expected when they were drawn on the other side of the ledger from Barcelona, Liverpool and Chelsea, Manchester United face an Arsenal side that is unbeaten in twenty EPL matches and could potentially expose the Red Devils’ defensive frailties.

If Arsenal attack at Old Trafford, lead by the fit and back in form captain Cesc Fabregas, they have the capability to nab crucial away goals, despite the absence of Robin Van Persie, and set up the tie, especially when heading to Emirates for the second leg where the Gunners defeated United 2-1 in their EPL encounter.

United aren’t invincible. See the FA Cup semi-final for proof.

They have recently leaked goals and are relying too heavily on their attacking stock. It may work against weaker opposition, such as Tottenham, but it can leave them exposed against higher quality teams.

But Arsenal has to be on top form defensively, especially with left back Gael Clichy missing. As Tottenham found out, Manchester United are irrepressible when in top gear.

Let’s hope both sides display the attacking strength we know they both play so well.

For Arsenal and neutrals, however, the absence of Andrey Arshavin, ineligible having played for Zenit St Petersburg in this season’s Champions League, is a big setback.

The Russian playmaker has brilliantly adapted to the English game. His four goal brace against Liverpool was followed by the amazing admission he is still getting used to the English game.

His potential is limitless, and combined with Fabregas, Theo Walcott and the rest of Arsene Wenger’s baby Gunners, they look set to challenge once again for the EPL crown next season.

As he showed at Euro ’08 and against Liverpool, Arshavin is a big stage player, so his presence will be sadly missed.

United, however, will be very thankful the diminutive Russian is consigned to the stands.

Adding spice to the clash is the fact Arsenal could still impact United’s trophy charge in the EPL with their meeting on May 16 at Old Trafford, the penultimate match of the season.

If the title race is still simmering by then, Arsenal could throw a curveball into United’s premiership quest, especially considering Liverpool’s easier run home.

Excitement is building as the end of the European season fast approaches.

Each of the potential UCL finals match-ups promises so much.

Manchester United Vs Barcelona will bring together the two form sides in Europe this season; Manchester United Vs Chelsea will see a rematch of last season’s nail biting and bitter final; Barcelona Vs Arsenal is another final rematch, this time from 2006, with former Arsenal great Thierry Henry seeking his first European title; while Chelsea Vs Arsenal will see the London rivals battle it out on Europe’s biggest stage.

But first there is the matter of the semi-finals, and Arsenal is far from the easy beats.

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