Manchester United’s young prospects came out on top in an enthralling FA Youth Cup quarter-final with Arsenal.
Make that twice in 2025 that Manchester United have gone to The Emirates and won. This time it was the under-18s, winning in the FA Youth Cup.
United’s youngsters did not need penalties either, winning 3-2 in extra-time, having trailed with 10 minutes to go.
Chido Obi was rested for the game too, now included in first team preparations for the FA Cup game with Fulham this weekend.
How Manchester United beat Arsenal in the FA Youth Cup
Manchester United reached the quarter-finals scoring 15 goals in three games against Coventry City, Preston North End, and Chelsea.
The tie away to Arsenal was a tough test, and it was Manchester United who took the lead, with Jack Fletcher scoring a sensational effort from outside the box. The assist was registered to Gabriele Biancheri.
Arsenal then equalised against the run of play with a break away goal just before half-time to send the two team in level.
United came out flat in the second half and took the lead from the penalty box after Max Dowden went down inside the box after a shirt pull.
Arsenal were heading to victory before a rocket of a strike from in-form right-back Jayden Kamason tied the game at 2-2. James Scanlon had the assist.
United made changes ahead of extra time and they paid off, with two substitutes combining for the goals.
Excellent control from Samuel Lusale saw him drive into the Arsenal box before cutting the ball back for Bendito Mantato to score first time, to give United a 3-2 lead.
United were the better team in extra time and deserved the win, go through into the semi-finals.
Ayden Heaven celebrates Manchester United win
When Manchester United beat Arsenal in the FA Cup at the start of January, Ayden Heaven was still an Arsenal player.
He signed for United at the end of January, and it is clear where his loyalties lie. The teenager responded to United’s post on Instagram celebrating the win, with a simple message, reading: “Fantastic,” while Harry Maguire also showed his applause.
Manchester United’s under-18s side have been enjoying a terrific season, losing only one game in all competitions.
This victory sets up a semi-final against Watford, while United could yet meet City in the final.