Arsenal began their Premier League campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford, grinding out three points in a performance that tested their resilience.Riccardo Calafiori made the decisive impact in the 13th minute, powering home a superb header to hand the Gunners an early lead. The Italian’s goal ultimately proved the match winner, though the visitors were forced to withstand heavy pressure for much of the contest.Patrick Dorgu rattled the woodwork with a long-range strike on the half-hour mark, while debutant Matheus Cunha looked lively for United. The £62.5 million signing from Wolves twice tested David Raya, firing from distance before drawing a sharp save from close range. Bryan Mbeumo also added attacking threat as the hosts pressed for a leveller.Raya The Difference For ArsenalUnited dominated large spells before and after the break, forcing Arsenal deeper into their own half. Raya produced another crucial save to deny Bruno Fernandes’ free-kick just before the hour mark, keeping the slender lead intact. Declan Rice attempted to relieve pressure with a long-range effort that sailed over, but it was the hosts who continued to create the better chances.By full-time, United had registered 20 shots to Arsenal’s limited attempts, but the Gunners held firm to claim the points. Raya reflected on the win in his post-match interview with SkySports: “Defensively we weren’t at our best, so that was a hard fight. We got our goal in the first half with a corner and from there we just fought until the end, credit to the boys for getting the clean sheet.”Riccardo Calafiori (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)Signs Of Champions Or Cause For Concern?It was not a vintage display from Arsenal, but grinding out results in difficult circumstances is often the hallmark of title contenders. Concerns remain about defensive vulnerability and the lack of goals from open play, but the opening-day victory ensures momentum going into a tough run of fixtures. With Liverpool, Nottingham Forest, Manchester City and Newcastle on the horizon, tightening up at the back will be crucial.What do you think Gooners, was this the gritty win of champions or a warning sign of issues to come?Liam Harding__________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENTSo here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, please contact us through this link…More Stories / Latest NewsMatch Report: Arsenal Battle To Opening Day Win At Old Trafford17 August 2025, 19:00Confirmed Arsenal Team to face Man United – Zubimendi and Gyokeres start!17 August 2025, 15:20Match Preview: Manchester United v Arsenal in Premier League Season Opener Clash17 August 2025, 14:30The post Match Report: Arsenal Battle To Opening Day Win At Old Trafford appeared first on Just Arsenal News.