Controversial British broadcaster and outspoken Arsenal fan, Piers Morgan, has taken a swipe at Manchester United following their 1-0 defeat to Arsenal at Old Trafford on Sunday in the opening weekend of the English Premier League (EPL) season.
While Morgan mocked United for losing at home, he also did not spare his beloved Arsenal, insisting that the Gunners were far from their best despite securing all three points.
The only goal of the match came from Arsenal’s new signing, Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori, who found the net in the second half to give Mikel Arteta’s men a crucial away win.
The result was a positive start for Arsenal, who are aiming to go one step further this season after finishing second to Manchester City in the previous campaign.
### Piers Morgan Reacts: Mixed Feelings
Shortly after the final whistle, Piers Morgan took to his X (formerly Twitter) account to share his thoughts. True to his usual blunt style, he praised the result but criticised the overall performance of his team.
“Everyone waxing lyrical about ‘so many positives for United’, so permit me to introduce one negative: they lost,” Morgan posted.
He continued: “Arsenal not firing yet, but a big away win to kick off the season. I’ll take it.”
Morgan’s reaction sparked conversation among football fans online. Some praised his honesty, while others accused him of being too harsh on Arsenal after an important win.
Known for his strong opinions and deep passion for Arsenal, Morgan has never been afraid to criticise players or the coach when he feels performances are below expectations. His comment suggests he still wants to see more intensity and sharpness from Mikel Arteta’s team, especially in attack.
Although Arsenal secured the three points, the performance was far from convincing. They struggled to break down a determined Manchester United side, especially in the first half.
However, it was Riccardo Calafiori, the summer signing from Bologna, who broke the deadlock. The Italian defender latched onto a loose ball in the 68th minute and calmly slotted it past United goalkeeper André Onana.
Calafiori’s goal marked his first in the Premier League and provided the spark Arsenal needed to finish the match strong. The Gunners held off late pressure from United to secure a hard-fought win.
Manchester United, under new manager Ruben Amorim, showed some improvements in their overall play. There was more movement in midfield and better positioning in defence compared to last season. However, the same old problems remained lack of goals and poor finishing.
Despite the improved play, United couldn’t find a breakthrough. New signings, including striker Rasmus Højlund and midfielder João Neves, struggled to make a major impact.
Piers Morgan was quick to point this out. While many pundits praised United’s “positives” from the game, Morgan bluntly reminded them that none of it mattered without a result.
Matches between Arsenal and Manchester United are always filled with passion and pressure. Once the biggest rivalry in English football during the Arsène Wenger–Sir Alex Ferguson era, the clash still carries emotional weight for fans across the world.
Arsenal are chasing their first league title since 2004, while United are still rebuilding and hoping to return to their former glory.
Both teams made major changes over the summer. Arsenal focused on strengthening their defence and midfield, bringing in players like Calafiori and Martin Zubimendi. United, on the other hand, appointed Ruben Amorim as their new head coach and made several new signings to fix weaknesses exposed last season.
Morgan’s remarks reflect the high expectations surrounding both clubs, especially from fans who want results delivered with style.
Arsenal will now look to build on their winning start as they prepare to face Leeds United in their next league match. Arteta will be hoping his team improves in front of goal and begins to find their rhythm as the season progresses.
Manchester United, meanwhile, will face Fulham in their next game. Amorim will be under pressure to get his first win, especially with matches against tougher opposition coming up later in the month.
