Manchester United missed the chance to close the gap on Premier League leaders Manchester City as they played out a goalless draw with Arsenal at Emirates Stadium.
United needed all three points at the Emirates Stadium after a shocking defeat to Sheffield United in midweek to close the gap on leaders and City rivals Manchester City to just a point at the top of the table.
The Gunners went closest when Alexandre Lacazette’s clipped free-kick hit the bar after the break while United keeper, David de Gea saved well from Emile Smith Rowe and Nicolas Pepe also threatened to break the deadlock.
De Gea’s counterpart Bernd Leno also distinguished himself with an athletic fingertip save from Fred in the first half.
United striker Edinson Cavani had two good chances to win the game for the Red Devils but the Gunners’ defense were up to the task to prevent the Uruguayan from finding the back of the net.
Cavani was a constant threat to Arsenal in the dying minutes of the game but saw a close-range effort deflected wide off Leno and the United striker then hooked a superb cross from Aaron Wan-Bissaka just wide when he looked certain to score.
Arsenal gave a late debut to Martin Odegaard, signed on loan from Real Madrid, but he had little impact and the stalemate leaves United three points behind Manchester City having played a game more.
United made an early change in the first half as midfielder Scott McTominay could not complete the half.
Manchester United are now on 41 points, three behind Manchester City who have a game in hand.
