Manchester United ended the day two points further behind Manchester City than they started it as they were held to a 0-0 draw by Arsenal at the Emirates.
The result caps a disappointing week for the Reds after Wednesday’s defeat by Sheffield United, and City now hold a three-point lead over their rivals and also have a game in hand.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer made a host of changes from the team that lost in midweek, with Edinson Cavani the most notable starter as Anthony Martial dropped to the bench.
Martial emerged in the first half to replace the poorly Scott McTominay but even with Cavani, Martial, Marcus Rashford, Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes on the pitch together for much of the proceedings, United couldn’t find a goal.
Next up on Man Utd’s plate is Tuesday’s meeting with Southampton at Old Trafford.
United are now unbeaten in their last 18 top-flight away games – a new club record.
