Without a doubt, this weekend’s matches between the top four are mouthwatering. Sure, big clashes like Liverpool against Chelsea, and Arsenal versus Manchester United usually don’t live up to expectations, but with so much to play for, I have a feeling that this weekend will be different.Arsenal couldn’t have picked a better time to be playing Man United. Other than their recent 0-1 loss to Sheffield United on December 30, the last time Arsenal lost a match was November 29 when they failed miserably against Fulham 1-2. But since that Fulham match, the Gunners have scored 30 goals and let in 11 during 12 matches in all competitions.But, more importantly, Arsenal is playing sublime football at this time.So too is Man United who had one of their best matches of the season against Aston Villa at the weekend as they passed the ball around the park beautifully with Gary Neville getting more involved than lately with his fantastic curving crosses into the box.I believe Man United will go into this match with a gameplan of winning it, which could ultimately be their downfall. United knows that if Chelsea overcomes Liverpool at Anfield and Arsenal beats Man U, the gap at the top would be narrowed to just 3 points. A draw for United would give Sir Alex Ferguson’s squad a little more comfort, but a win for United at the Emirates would be a dashing blow for Chelsea psychologically — no matter the result at Anfield.On the pitch, this should be a scintilating match to watch. Both teams play attractive, flowing football and – without a doubt – are two of the most entertaining sides to watch in England, if not all of Europe, right now.This will be a match where Paul Scholes will need to have a match of the season to quell Arsenal’s attacks and to shut down the midfield runs and passes by Arsenal that are often started by Fabregas. Up front for United, Rooney will need to improve, while Henrik Larsson should be able to cause Arsenal’s left back Gael Clichy plenty of problems.In the match, let’s see if Thierry Henry can shrug off the accusations of him being a flat-track bully and produce a quality goal against quality opposition. Van Persie is on fire right now, so Patrice Evra will have quite a job on his hands.My prediction:
Arsenal 2-2 Manchester UnitedThe preview of the Chelsea vs Liverpool match will be posted tomorrow.