Red Rivals: Assembling the Ultimate XI from Manchester United and Arsenal’s Golden Eras

Manchester United vs Manchester United vs Arsenal most valuable combined XI - Gunners dominance
Manchester United vs Manchester United vs Arsenal most valuable combined XI Gunners dominance

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Most valuable combined XI: Manchester United vs Arsenal - Gunners dominance

The Premier League once witnessed a fierce rivalry between Manchester United and Arsenal, characterized by legendary figures such as Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsène Wenger, Roy Keane and Patrick Vieira, and Ruud van Nistelrooy and Martin Keown. Matches during this period were known for their intensity and fervor. From 1996 to 2004, United and Arsenal exclusively claimed the league title. Fast forward to today, neither club has recaptured that glory: Arsenal last lifted the trophy over 20 years ago, while Manchester United had a disappointing 15th-place finish last season.

This weekend marks the return of the Premier League, and in an exciting twist, these two iconic teams will face each other on the opening match day. Mikel Arteta’s squad is set to visit Old Trafford this Sunday. This match carries numerous storylines, with potential debuts for strikers Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyökeres, along with several other players sporting their new jerseys in a competitive setting for the first time. Arsenal heads into the encounter as the favorite, although they have managed only two league wins at Old Trafford since the 2007/08 season—both of which occurred under Arteta’s management. As excitement builds, Transfermarkt presents a look at the current most valuable combined XI from both teams, showcasing Arsenal’s dominance.

Combined XI: Manchester United vs Arsenal

Expect a fully Arsenal defensive lineup. In goal is Arsenal’s David Raya, valued at €40 million, surpassing André Onana’s €25 million. At right-back, we have Dutchman Jurrien Timber, priced at €55 million. The center-back duo consists of William Saliba (€80 million) and Gabriel (€75 million), with young talent Myles Lewis-Skelly (€45 million) occupying the left-back position. Arsenal’s dominance continues in central midfield with Declan Rice, valued at €120 million, and captain Martin Ødegaard, worth €85 million.

Combined XI

Manchester United’s first representative in this XI is new signing Matheus Cunha, playing on the left wing, valued at €60 million. On the right wing is Bukayo Saka, the highest valued player in the team at €150 million. Completing the attack is Gyökeres (€75 million) and United’s new striker Sesko, currently valued at €70 million. Arsenal dominates with nine out of the eleven spots, but will that market value advantage translate into a win on Sunday?