Ferdinand makes bold United vs Arsenal prediction with five-goal thriller anticipated at Old Trafford

Rio Ferdinand has shared his prediction for Manchester United’s high-stakes clash with longtime rivals Arsenal next month.

The Red Devils welcome current Premier League leaders to Old Trafford on May 12 in a meeting that’s expected to have substantial ramifications on the title race.

In truth, the majority of United supporters would much rather see Mikel Arteta get his hands on the silverware over a record-making fourth successive title for Manchester City, or Liverpool levelling United’s record of being the 20-time champions. But taking all three points is a necessity in every game, no matter the potential consequences.

The reverse fixture at the Emirates last September was nothing short of deflating for United. Marcus Rashford opened the scoring in the 27th minute before Martin Odegaard levelled the contest just 60 seconds later.

Alejandro Garnacho thought he’d won it with an emphatic finish in the closing stages before VAR intervened and deemed the Argentinian to have been offside in the build-up – a questionable decision, to say the least.

Arsenal were then able to clinch it at the death with two quickfire goals in injury time, leaving the Reds in despair when the full-time whistle blew.

Rio predicts five-goal thriller

Ferdinand expects the goals to flow this time around, although he sees his former club reigning victorious on their home turf.

When asked for his verdict on TNT Sports, the former centre-half said: “I’m going to go for a 3-2 United win.”