Manchester United 3-2 Arsenal: 5 Talking Points as Cristiano Ronaldo brace helps Red Devils return to winning ways | Premier League 2021-22

#3 Abysmal defending by both Arsenal and Manchester United

Mikel Arteta after the final whistle.

Most fans needed some time digesting how Manchester United conceded their first goal of the game against Arsenal.

Goalkeeper David de Gea went to ground following a stamping from Fred. allowing Emile Smith Rowe to smash the ball into an empty net. Manchester United's defence was too compact at times, allowing Arsenal wingers to run riot.

Meanwhile, Arsenal, too, conceded silly goals. The visitors went into a frenzy whenever Manchester United closed towards their goal. They awarded Marcus Rashford acres of space on the wings, which allowed him time to look out for Ronaldo.

For United's third, Martin Odegaard put in a silly challenge to bring Fred down in the penalty box. The Norwegian was nowhere close to getting the ball, and, in turn, conceded a spot-kick to the hosts, which was comfortably converted by Ronaldo.

---

#2 Cristiano Ronaldo scores landmark goal

Cristiano Ronaldo in action against Arsenal

Cristiano Ronaldo is inevitable. The Portuguese international scored a brace to ensure Manchester United bagged all three points on the night.

He kept pushing for a goal from the very start. The 36-year-old was rewarded for his persistence in the 52nd minute when he tucked away a low cross from Marcus Rashford. With that strike, he reached the landmark of 800 goals for club and country.

Ronaldo scored his second of the night from the penalty spot. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner smashed his effort down the centre, giving Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale no chance. It was his first Premier League brace since the opening day of the season.

---

#1 A new era beckons Manchester United

Ralf Rangnick is set to take charge as interim manager.

Interim manager Ralf Rangnick will take charge of Manchester United ahead of the game against Crystal Palace. The 63-year-old will take over from outgoing caretaker manager Michael Carrick.

The German tactician is renowned for his distinct gegenpressing philosophy, which has inspired the likes of Jurgen Klopp and Julian Nagelsmann, among others. It remains to be seen how United change their style of play under their new manager.