'Good memories' - Harry Maguire ready to continue excellent run against Arsenal

Harry Maguire says he will be drawing inspiration from his unforgettable opening-day experiences at Old Trafford when Manchester United kick off their Premier League season against Arsenal on Sunday.

The England defender, who joined United in 2019, has fond memories of his debut in the 4-0 demolition of Chelsea on the opening weekend that year, as well as the raucous 2021 season-opener when United thrashed Leeds United 5-1 in front of a full house after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Now, Maguire hopes to help script another memorable start as Ruben Amorim's side face one of their fiercest rivals.

Maguire said, “You always get excited with that first game. But you also know it’s a big game. Arsenal are a top team, one of the best in the Premier League, and we’ve always had great rivalries with them.

“I can remember my debut against Chelsea and also when we played Leeds, both amazing experiences. Hopefully, Sunday will be another one of those days.”

United have spent the summer preparing intensively for the season curtain-raiser, with Maguire highlighting the mix of nerves and anticipation that always comes with the first match.

“As a footballer, it’s probably the most nervous you are for a game but also the one you look forward to the most.

“There’s a lot of emotion in that first fixture, but it’s a perfect one for us, a big game, big occasion, and hopefully we can step up,” he explained.

The clash with Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, who finished runners-up last season, is expected to be one of the standout fixtures of the Premier League’s opening weekend.