Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag explains why he's been 'impressed' by Arsenal

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has explained what has impressed him about Arsenal under Mikel Arteta.

The Gunners mounted a surprise charge for the Premier League title last season, eventually finishing five points short of top spot. United head to the Emirates Stadium this afternoon and will face a slightly new-look Arsenal, with Arteta beginning to tweak his tactics after bringing in Declan Rice and Kai Havertz in the summer transfer window.

In their two meetings last season, Erik ten Hag’s side recorded a 3-1 win over the Gunners at Old Trafford and were also unlucky to find themselves on the wrong end of a 3-2 scoreline in north London. However, the United boss has admitted that he admires Arteta’s work and is anticipating another high-quality clash between the two sides.

“I think with their style and their system it’s quite clear and they did very well already last season, we were impressed,” Ten Hag told United’s club website. “But we have seen we can play good against them and we’re really looking forward [to it] because probably [it is] one of the most important games in the Premier League.

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“I think everyone is looking forward [to it] and, as I said, both teams have an attacking style so it’s going to be a great game. The audience in the stadium and at home before the television definitely will be the biggest winners. But of course, we want and we have to win this game.”

Despite United being forced to dip back into the transfer market and complete two signings on deadline day, Arsenal are only one point better off after three games. The Gunners surrendered two points against Fulham, last time out, courtesy of Joao Palinha’s dramatic