It is one of football oldest cliches, but in the case of Manchester United and Arsenal this season, the league table really does not lie.
For Arsenal, one point from their past two games means they are extremely unlikely to reel in league leaders Liverpool and face the prospect of a third straight season in second place.
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Arsenal’s goal difference of +28 is second best.
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The difference between their expected goals (xG) and xG against is 20.3 (second best).
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They have won the second highest number of points with 54.
Beyond being second, they are down in almost every metric on this time in 2023-24, where they had 61 points after 27 games.
Their shot conversion rate is also worse than last season but, despite valid criticism about the lack of a striker, only Brentford and Liverpool have proved more efficient at putting the ball in the net.
However, it is only in goals conceded that Arsenal have matched their 2023-24 record – and they remain the best defence in the Premier League in that regard.
Read more key stats before Sunday’s game with Arsenal over here
Full commentary of Manchester United v Arsenal on BBC Radio 5 Live from 16:30 GMT on Sunday
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