Manchester United reignited the Premier League title race on Sunday after edging leaders Arsenal 3–2 in a pulsating encounter at the Emirates Stadium, handing the Gunners their first defeat in 13 matches across all competitions.
The loss, Arsenal’s first at home since May, narrowed the gap at the top of the table and injected fresh tension into the championship battle, with Manchester City and Aston Villa now within striking distance.
Arsenal began the contest on the front foot and were rewarded midway through the first half when sustained pressure forced an error in the United defence.
A loose clearance under pressure resulted in Lisandro Martinez inadvertently turning the ball into his own net, giving the hosts a deserved lead.
However, Arsenal’s advantage was short-lived.
A costly defensive lapse allowed Bryan Mbeumo to capitalise, dispossessing the back line before calmly rounding goalkeeper David Raya to restore parity before the break.
United emerged stronger after half-time and took the lead through Patrick Dorgu, whose powerful strike from outside the box found the top corner.
The goal, which survived a brief VAR check, underlined the visitors’ growing confidence under interim manager Michael Carrick.
Arsenal pushed relentlessly for an equaliser and appeared to have salvaged a point late on when Mikel Merino bundled the ball home from close range following a corner in the 84th minute, sending the home crowd into celebration.
But United were not finished. Just three minutes later, a swift passing move involving Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo created space for Matheus Cunha, who unleashed a stunning long-range effort beyond Raya to seal a famous away victory.
The result marked United’s first win at the Emirates since 2017 and continued Carrick’s impressive start following his appointment, with victories now recorded against the league’s top two sides.
For Arsenal, the defeat extended a worrying winless run in the league and raised fresh questions about their ability to sustain a title challenge.
While Mikel Arteta’s side still sit top, recent dropped points have revived memories of previous campaigns where strong positions slipped away.
With the season entering a decisive phase, Arsenal remain in control of their fate, but Sunday’s dramatic setback has ensured the Premier League race is firmly back on.
