Chris Sutton has made a prediction as Arsenal prepare to face Manchester United at Old Trafford this weekend, in a game which could have major implications for the Premier League title race.

The Gunners go into their penultimate game of the season top of the table, one point clear of Manchester City, but Pep Guardiola’s men have a game in hand.

City also have the chance to strike the first blow this weekend, when they face Fulham the day before Arsenal travel to Old Trafford.

It is not uncommon for games between Arsenal and Manchester United to define a Premier League season, but this year is slightly different in that the only role United can now try and play is to boost City’s hopes of clinching their fourth title in a row.

Erik ten Hag’s side are in real disarray, and with that, Chris Sutton has told It’s All Kicking Off that he cannot see any result other than an Arsenal win.

Chris Sutton thinks Arsenal should beat Manchester United comfortably

“It’s hard looking at this fixture and actually thinking if Arsenal turn up, that this is going to be a contest. I expect Arsenal, if they’re anywhere near the top of their game, to beat Manchester United comfortably,” he said.

“It’s a Manchester United team who are massively depleted defensively. That clearly hasn’t helped. But at this moment in time, you’re thinking about them finishing the league season, I expect Arsenal to win comfortably.”

Erik ten Hag needs to hope bleak predictions inspire his team

It was alarming how easily Crystal Palace took Manchester United apart on Monday night, with the Eagles winning 4-0 at Selhurst Park.

Of course, you could point to the injury problems United currently have, but they still had a lot of quality out on the pitch against Palace, so it is hard to see how they will compete with Arsenal.

As Sutton suggests, Arsenal should be fine if they produce a professional performance. United meanwhile, need to use everyone writing them off as fuel – while hoping Arsenal make the mistake of taking them lightly.

Pressure can make very strange things happen.