Manchester United vs. Arsenal in the WSL: How to watch, preview, history
All the key information ahead of Manchester United and Arsenal meeting in the WSL
Get ready for a blockbuster clash in the Women's Super League as Manchester United Women host Arsenal Women at Leigh Sports Village.
This is a must-watch encounter between two of the league's heavyweights, with both teams looking to make a statement early in the season.
Match Details
Date: Sunday, 21 September 2025
Kick-off: 2:50 PM BST
Venue: Leigh Sports Village
TV Coverage: The match will be broadcast live in the UK on BBC One, BBC iPlayer, and the BBC Sport website.
A battle for top spot
Both Manchester United and Arsenal have started the new WSL season with a perfect two wins from two matches.
This fixture will be a true test of their title credentials and could see one pull ahead in the race for the top of the table.
Manchester United: The Red Devils have been clinical in their opening matches, scoring nine goals in their first two WSL games (4-0 v. Leicester, 5-1 v. London City Lionesses). Their strong start to the season will give them immense confidence heading into this high-stakes game on home turf.
Arsenal: The Gunners, fresh off their recent Champions League triumph, are also in excellent form. Having also scored nine goals in their first two WSL matches (4-1 v. London City Lionesses, 5-1 v. West Ham), they will be looking to continue their momentum and get a vital win against a key rival.
Recent history: A high-scoring rivalry
The rivalry between Manchester United Women and Arsenal Women has become one of the most compelling in the WSL. Recent encounters have delivered drama, goals, and unpredictable results, with 15 goals scored across their last three meetings alone.
May 10, 2025: Arsenal 4-3 Manchester United In a seven-goal thriller at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal edged out United in a decisive end-of-season match.
November 3, 2024: Manchester United 1-1 Arsenal A tense, tactical battle at Leigh Sports Village saw the teams share the points after two late goals.
February 17, 2024: Arsenal 3-1 Manchester United Arsenal secured a convincing victory at a sold-out Emirates, putting a significant dent in United's title aspirations at the time.
Players to watch
This fixture is a goldmine of talent, with both squads boasting some of the best players in the world. The outcome could well be decided by a moment of individual brilliance.
Manchester United
Ella Toone: The dynamic and creative midfielder is the heartbeat of Manchester United's attack. Known for her vision, clever passes, and ability to score, Toone is a constant threat and often steps up in the biggest games.
Jess Park: Manchester United secured the high-profile transfer of Jess Park from rivals Manchester City. The England international brings pace, technical skill, and versatility. Having scored and assisted on her full WSL debut, she has already shown her quality.
Arsenal
Alessia Russo: The star striker, formerly of Manchester United, will be a central figure. Russo's powerful style of play, intelligent movement, and clinical finishing make her a nightmare for defenders. After winning the WSL Golden Boot last season, she'll be determined to put on a show against her former side.
Chloe Kelly: Another massive summer acquisition, Chloe Kelly's move from Manchester City to Arsenal was one of the transfer window's biggest stories. Known for her direct running and blistering pace on the wing, as well as her famous goalscoring heroics for England, Kelly adds another dimension to an already fearsome Arsenal attack.