Riccardo Calafiori’s early strike earned Arsenal a narrow 1-0 victory over Manchester United in their Premier League opener at Old Trafford.

The Italian defender settled the contest in the 13th minute, capitalising on Arsenal’s trademark set-piece strength. Declan Rice swung in a teasing corner that United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir, preferred ahead of the recovering André Onana, failed to deal with convincingly.

His misjudged punch fell kindly for Calafiori, who headed in from close range.

That proved to be Arsenal’s only real breakthrough in a cagey affair.

United, meanwhile, looked lively through summer arrivals Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo.

Cunha forced David Raya into a sharp save low to his left, while Patrick Dorgu struck the post with a curling effort as the hosts pressed for an equaliser.

The second half was played largely on Arsenal’s terms defensively, with Mikel Arteta’s men sitting deep and creating little going forward.

Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard struggled to influence proceedings, leaving Arsenal with just four attempts compared to United’s eight.

United’s clearest opening came in the 74th minute when Dorgu floated in a precise cross for Mbeumo, but Raya reacted superbly to claw away the forward’s downward header.

William Saliba also produced a crucial last-ditch block to deny Cunha as Arsenal survived a tense finale.

The result means Arsenal begin their campaign with three points, joining fellow title hopefuls Liverpool and Manchester City in making a winning start.

For United, however, there was a familiar sense of frustration.

Despite flashes of promise under Ruben Amorim, they remain winless at the beginning of a season that follows a disappointing 15th-place finish last term.

What’s Next for Both Teams

Arsenal will look to build on their opening-day win when they return to the Emirates Stadium next weekend to face Brighton, hoping to sharpen their attacking edge after a largely defensive showing at Old Trafford.

Mikel Arteta’s side will also have one eye on maintaining momentum before their early Champions League fixtures later this month.

For Manchester United, Ruben Amorim’s men must quickly regroup as they travel to Selhurst Park to take on Crystal Palace.

With pressure already mounting after last season’s struggles, United will be eager to turn encouraging moments into points as they search for their first victory of the campaign.