Manchester United vs Arsenal: Benjamin Sesko and Martín Zubimendi are each club’s most expensive signings
Two of England’s biggest clubs clash on opening weekend with new stars in the spotlight
Manchester United and Arsenal will face off in the first major derby of the 2025/26 Premier League season this Sunday (17 August), marking a blockbuster start to the campaign.
Big Ambitions, Bigger Budgets
Both clubs enter the new season determined to improve on last year’s performances. United, under Ruben Amorim, are targeting a return to the top of the table, while Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal aim to finally convert consistent top-three finishes into a league title.
To get there, neither side held back in the transfer market:
- Manchester United spent €229.7 million (£1.4 billion) on reinforcements.
- Arsenal invested €224.2 million (£1.3 billion), matching their rivals’ spending power.
Sesko and Zubimendi: Record Signings
United’s headline arrival is Benjamin Sesko, signed from RB Leipzig for €76.5 million (£483 million) to become their new main striker. Arsenal’s biggest move was for Martín Zubimendi, who joined from Real Sociedad in a €70 million (£441.9 million) deal the largest sale in the Spanish club’s history.
Debut Watch
Zubimendi has already featured in five preseason matches for the Gunners, contributing one assist. Sesko, despite being unveiled at Old Trafford, has yet to make an appearance even in friendlies and is expected to make his Premier League debut in Sunday’s clash.
