Amorim defends Bayindir after foul claims ignored in 1-0 Arsenal defeat

Manchester United’s 2025-26 Premier League campaign began with a 1-0 defeat to Arsenal at Old Trafford in the opening week on Sunday. Despite being in a strong position and creating ample chances in the final third, they failed to score a goal. A 13th-minute strike from Riccardo Calafiori was the only goal of the match, as Arsenal maintained their lead for the remainder of the game. Riccardo headed the opener in the 13th minute after Manchester United goalkeeper Bayindir failed to clear the ball. 

Following the goal, United players and goalkeeper Altay Bayindir complained to the referee, claiming that Bayindir had been fouled during the corner. However, the referee allowed the goal to stand. Meanwhile, United manager Ruben Amorim also expressed his displeasure over the incident, defending the goalkeeper, as he believed the goal should have been disallowed for a foul.

“For me, (Saliba) is not playing the ball. I understand we want goals, but when you touch the goalkeeper in that way, I think it’s harsh to lose a game like this.

“It’s hard to be stronger when you have to push for the ball. But we need to be stronger in that moment, we need to do the same thing at the opposite end.

“We have to adapt to the rules. Today it’s hard to accept because I think we were the better team.”

Loads of positives for United but no goals 

Manchester United slumped to 15th in the Premier League standings last season. They were keen to begin their campaign with a win, but ended up on the losing side. United, though, had put in a strong performance, maintaining possession for a significant period. They had 22 shots in the match, the most in a Premier League match against Arsenal since 2011. New strikers Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha made their Manchester United debuts. The duo created numerous chances but just couldn't find a way past the goalkeeper. 

The Reds are scheduled to play their next game against Fulham at Craven Cottage on Sunday.