Arsene Wenger may be forced to realise that he needs to spend to improve and progress
We all know what happened these two sides met, it is embossed in the memory of the two sets of supporters.
One set of fans were jubilant, the other crestfallen, embarrassed and angry.
United’s 8-2 victory seems like a long time ago, especially in the way Arsenal bounced back, but after slipping to shock defeats to Fulham and Swansea, the memories have come flooding back.
In fact Arsenal are experiencing their lowest point since that defeat, and the last opponents they feel like facing right now are Manchester United.
Even if they win, something won’t quite feel right thanks to the defeats at Fulham and Swansea.
That is because there remains real problems at the club, and just like re-signing Thierry Henry for two months, a win would only be a welcome sticking plaster when a different stronger remedy is required.
Arsene Wenger came out this week and said he would not spend this January.
This has infuriated supporters, who listened to the same words prior to the 8-2 defeat in August.
Only then, did Wenger wake up, see the scale of the problem and take action, signing five players including the impressive Mikel Arteta.
By time the game kicks off Arsenal could find themselves in seventh place, seven points behind Chelsea.
This is the scale of the battle they face between now and May, they are now in a four-way race to finish fourth with Chelsea, Newcastle and Liverpool.
Recent losses showed they need new signings up front and in defence if they are to get the Champions League spot.
Failure could cost them the ultimate price- captain and top scorer Robin van Persie deciding to leave.
A win against Manchester United would feel good, but it would prove Wenger right.
It is important for Arsenal’s future that he is proved wrong- the more comprehensively the better.
Only then can the club move forward once again.
– Do you agree?
images: © Matt and Kim Rudge, © Ronnie Macdonald
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
