This is undoubtedly the clash of the weekend: Arsene Wenger’s Gunners host the Champions Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium.

This is a must-win game for both sides and this factor should elevate the passion in the match.

Arsenal have suffered a set back after drawing 4-4 against Spurs and then loosing 2-1 at Stoke. Their goalless draw against Fernabache in the Champions League was not the best of responses, so the Gunners will certainly want to get it right at all cost today.

Samir Nasri, Toure or even Bendtner know how important it is to win this titanic encounter just as much as Cristiano Ronaldo does. Speaking to the press, Ronaldo said that Manchester United should go for all three points. He admitted it would not be an easy mission but an essential task.

Manchester United were seconds away from a famous win at the Emirates the last time they met there against Arsenal, but Gallas’ injury time equalizer ruled out Ronaldo’s strike to make it 2-2.

It is obvious that Arsenal’s new stadium, the Emirates Stadium, could have an impact on the outcome of the game. Hull City are only the second team after West Ham to trample the Gunners in their fortress.

Manchester United will hope to do the same as their desire to retain their Premier League title is still burning.

Arsenal’s injury worries may have a major effect: Adebayor is sidelined, Van Persie serves his three match ban while Walcott is a major doubt.

However, Wenger’s youngsters can never be written off and everyone knows the capacity they have and the surprise they can produce.

The Red Champions are one point above Arsenal in the league standings with a game in hand. A win will not only be a response to last time’s shaky 4-3 win against the Tigers, or Wednesday’s draw at Celtic, but it will also boost their chances to challenge for the title against the likes of Liverpool and Chelsea.

Written by: Angela Asante