ARSENAL lost their Premier League clash with Man Utd 3-2 after two second-half goals from Cristiano Ronaldo.
And to make matters worse, Gunners captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang liked Ronaldo's tweet celebrating the victory on Instagram.
Meanwhile, Gabriel had to fight off masked thieves who tried to steal his car, it has been revealed.
The defender, 23, initially handed over a watch and the keys to his £45,000 Mercedes before fighting off the robbers in the garage of his own home.
Raheem Sterling is said to find the idea of a move to Arsenal "extremely attractive".
However, the England star is not set to be out long-term.
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- Ian Tuckey
5 CRAZY KEEPER MOMENTS
As the saying goes, you have to be mad to be a goalkeeper… and these No1’s have provided us with some eccentric moments, writes JON BOON.
In between the sticks for Manchester United, David De Gea conceded the most bizarre goal against Arsenal, when his own team mate Fred trod on his heel, leaving him on the deck as Emile Smith Rowe volleyed in from the edge of the area.
The controversial goal was allowed to stand with referee Martin Atkinson failing to blow the whistle before the ball crossed the line to stop play.
But that’s not the only bizarre moment involving the keeper as SunSport looks back at some classic incidents…
DIVOT
Former Blackburn goalie Tim Flowers’ unfortunate error always appears on blooper shows.
LIFE’S A BEACH
On a beach, a beach ball is lots of fun. But on the football pitch, it’s a potential hazard for goalkeepers
Just ask ex-Liverpool and Spain keeper Pepe Reina, who saw a shot from Sunderland striker Darren Bent deflect off one past him in a 1-0 defeat in 2009
SCORPION KICK
It’s the most remarkable save you’ll ever see.
England were hosting Colombia in 1995, in what ended up being a drab 0-0 draw.
However, it was livened up by madcap Rene Higuita’s now infamous scorpion kick.
ON A ROLL
He’s behind you!
Clearly, Shay Given didn’t get the memo that 6ft 2in centre forward Dion Dublin was sneakily hiding behind him.
So, the Irishman decided to roll the ball out in front of him as he prepared to launch the ball forward for Newcastle in a game against Coventry City during the 1997-98 season.
Cue Dublin pouncing on the loose ball and sweeping it home.
PAUL ROBINSON’S FREAK GOAL
Spare a thought for his rival, Ben Foster because no goalie wants to be scored against by his opposite number.
But that’s exactly what happened to the Watford shotstopper, when ex-Spurs star Paul Robinson unleashed a monster free kick from deep in his own half in a game from 2007.
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- Ian Tuckey
HENRY DECRIES NEGATIVE ARSENAL
Frustrated Arsenal legend Thierry Henry accused Mikel Arteta of having a small-team mentality as the Gunners sat back after they led early on in last night's 3-2 loss at Manchester United.
Henry said: "I was disappointed to see us sit deep to protect a 1-0.
"We do not behave like a big team in these games.
"The teams mentality comes from the captain & manager; it seems his [Arteta's] mentality is always to play like an underdog."
- Ian Tuckey
SPOT OF BOTHER
Arsenal fans were left fuming after being denied a potential penalty in the 3-2 loss to Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Takehiro Tomiyasu got away from Harry Maguire on the edge of the box in the first half.
And to prevent Tomiyasu from getting his head on the ball, Maguire gave the defender a tug.
But VAR didn’t intervene and play was waived on.
Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher says the incident wasn’t a ‘clear and obvious error’, which is why it wasn’t given.
One Arsenal fan said on Twitter: “Why haven’t they checked Maguire dragging down Tomiyasu in the penalty box? Stonewall penalty.”
While another fumed: “That’s a clear foul by Maguire on Tomiyasu in the penalty box… What’s the use of VAR?”
- Ian Tuckey
HALSEY BACKS REF ON EMILE GOAL
Former Prem ref Mark Halsey believes that the officials were right to allow Emile Smith Rowe’s controversial opener at Old Trafford last night.
He told SunSport: “It was bizarre as Smith Rowe fired home into an empty net with David de Gea injured on the ground.
“The strike was eventually awarded by VAR because referee Martin Atkinson did not see Fred had stepped on the foot of the United keeper.
“However, I don’t believe the controversial first-half incident should have reached that point.
“Atkinson clearly did not know why goalkeeper De Gea was lying on the ground.
“The United keeper could have had a head injury or something even more serious for all he knew.
“Therefore, the Yorkshire official should have used common sense and blown his whistle to stop play before Smith Rowe even took his shot at goal.
“We saw on the replays Atkinson went to blow and then stopped.
“Yes, De Gea should have been stronger but we must remember a goalkeeper is a specialist position because they are the only players on the field who can handle the ball.
“Atkinson’s positioning was poor, he got caught up in play and was in front of Smith Rowe when he took his shot. He should have moved six yards behind Smith Rowe to get in a better position.”
- Ian Tuckey
BAC-ED INTO A CORNER
Bacary Sagna has declared money played no part in his move to Manchester City – he simply didn't feel wanted at Arsenal.
The 38-year-old swapped the Emirates for the Etihad in 2014 on a free transfer after seven years of service in North London.
Sagna's last of his 284 appearances for the Gunners came in the 3-2 FA Cup final victory triumph over Hull.
Discussing his last game for Arsenal, he told SunSport via Freebets.com: "It was very difficult for me, even now I’m still emotional about it. It was my last game with the club I loved.
"The talks I had with them were not going well so I'd already made up my mind that I was leaving because I wanted to feel wanted.
"You really want to feel the love. I truly gave my best for the club even when I wasn't mentally there due to personal circumstances.
"People criticise me today saying I left for money, but I stayed at the club six years on the same contract and if you ask Arsene Wenger not even once did I ask for more money.
"I really played with my heart so when I came back to the club and people started booing me it hurt.
"But I guess that's life and I still have a lot of love for the club and want them to do well.
"Even if I were to criticise the team, it’s from a good place. When you love something, you have to be fair and honest."
- Ian Tuckey
TAKING AUBA OFF WAS A THIERRY STRANGE DECISION
Thierry Henry has questioned why Mikel Arteta took Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang off with Arsenal chasing an equaliser at Manchester United.
The Gunners captain was replaced by Alexandre Lacazette in the 79th minute last night as United won 3-2.
And with Arsenal a goal behind going into the latter stages of the game, Arteta decided to sacrifice his skipper in a double change.
Aubameyang, 32, was an almost invisible figure against the Red Devils, with the striker failing to offer anything.
His only notable contribution was being denied by David De Gea from yards out, resulting in him being taken off moments later.
It is now five Premier League games without a goal for the Gabon international, but despite his poor form, Henry believes he should have stayed on the pitch.
Speaking on Amazon Prime, Arsenal's all-time top scorer said: "Aubameyang is your captain. He is your goal scorer.
"You put him as your captain. 15 minutes to go, you’re losing 3-2 and you take him off. 3-2 away from home, you need a goal and you take your captain, your symbol, off the field.
"You know he can score you goals so something is not right there."
- Ian Tuckey
HE ALWAYS HAD THE ART OF MANAGEMENT
Mikel Arteta was always ‘destined’ to become a manager, according to former Gunners team-mate Kieran Gibbs.
The left-back told Sky Sports: “Anyone who played with Mikel throughout his career will tell you he was destined to be a manager.
“He’s got something extra you can’t explain, that extra love for the game. He lives and breathes it.
“He was always looking to analyse the game, study it and it’s no surprise he’s gone into management.
“When he arrived at Arsenal he was coming to the end of his career and you noticed he was quickly becoming the mediator between the players and the coaches more and more.”
- Etienne Fermie
'STONEWALL PENALTY'
Arsenal fans were left fuming after being denied a potential penalty in the 3-2 loss to Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Takehiro Tomiyasu got away from Harry Maguire on the edge of the box in the first half.
And to prevent Tomiyasu from getting his head on the ball, Maguire gave the defender a tug.
But VAR didn't intervene and play was waived on.
Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher says the incident wasn't a 'clear and obvious error', which is why it wasn't given.
One Arsenal fan said on Twitter: "Why haven't they checked Maguire dragging down Tomiyasu in the penalty box? Stonewall penalty."
While another fumed: "That's a clear foul by Maguire on Tomiyasu in the penalty box… What’s the use of VAR?"
- Etienne Fermie
'A BIT DISAPPOINTED'
Arsenal skipper Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has given his thoughts on the Gunners' 3-2 defeat at Old Trafford last night.
He said: "We are a bit disappointed tonight because the team played very well. We could have got a better result.
"In this time of game you need to be clinical defensively and offensively and you have to do the perfect game because of the quality of Manchester United.
"At the end of the first half we started to drop for too long and we conceded. In the second half we had the character to come back but in this type of game I have to stand up and score that opportunity and maybe get a point for us.
"I should definitely score that type of goal but I will not give up and I will keep trying to score goals.
"Compared to the game against Liverpool at Anfield we did better today. We did something very clear and we tried our best. It was very unlucky because I think the team deserved better today."
- Etienne Fermie
AU REVOIRAU DEAR
Arsenal skipper Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has incurred the wrath of fans following the loss against Manchester United by 'liking' Cristiano Ronaldo's celebratory post.
The 32-year-old was a passenger for the 3-2 defeat at Old Trafford as the Gunners missed out on the chance to leapfrog West Ham into fourth spot.
Aubameyang missed a sitter from yards out with the North Londoners seeking an equaliser in what was his only contribution in the match as his poor form in front of goal continues.
And his activity following the clash has infuriated the Arsenal faithful after the Metro pointed out that Ronaldo's Instagram post was 'liked' by the Gabon international.
It read: "Our minds are already set on the next game, there’s no time to celebrate!
"Today’s win was very important to get back on track, but there’s still a long road to go until we reach our destination.
"Congrats to all my team-mates, great spirit tonight! And a very special thank you to our supporters, we couldn’t have done it without you."
- Etienne Fermie
'WHAT IS HE SUPPOSED TO SAY?'
Thierry Henry has given his opinion on Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta hinting that Arsene Wenger could make a sensational return to the club in some capacity.
Do you agree with Thierry, Arsenal fans?
- Etienne Fermie
YOUNG GUNS
It's such a shame that this, albeit controversial, effort was for nothing.
Emile Smith Rowe made a little bit of history last night.
Feeling nostalgic, Arsenal fans?
- Etienne Fermie
ON THE MARK
Former Prem ref Mark Halsey believes that the officials were right to allow Emile Smith Rowe's controversial opener at Old Trafford last night.
He told SunSport: "It was bizarre as Smith Rowe fired home into an empty net with David de Gea injured on the ground.
"The strike was eventually awarded by VAR because referee Martin Atkinson did not see Fred had stepped on the foot of the United keeper.
"However, I don't believe the controversial first-half incident should have reached that point.
"Atkinson clearly did not know why goalkeeper De Gea was lying on the ground.
"The United keeper could have had a head injury or something even more serious for all he knew.
"Therefore, the Yorkshire official should have used common sense and blown his whistle to stop play before Smith Rowe even took his shot at goal.
"We saw on the replays Atkinson went to blow and then stopped.
"Yes, De Gea should have been stronger but we must remember a goalkeeper is a specialist position because they are the only players on the field who can handle the ball.
"Atkinson's positioning was poor, he got caught up in play and was in front of Smith Rowe when he took his shot. He should have moved six yards behind Smith Rowe to get in a better position."
- Etienne Fermie
EMILE SMITH OH NO
Here's the moment that's got everyone talking, Arsenal fans.
Should this strike have counted?
- Etienne Fermie
GIBB AND TAKE
Mikel Arteta was always 'destined' to become a manager, according to former Gunners team-mate Kieran Gibbs.
The left-back told Sky Sports: "Anyone who played with Mikel throughout his career will tell you he was destined to be a manager.
"He's got something extra you can't explain, that extra love for the game. He lives and breathes it.
"He was always looking to analyse the game, study it and it's no surprise he's gone into management.
"When he arrived at Arsenal he was coming to the end of his career and you noticed he was quickly becoming the mediator between the players and the coaches more and more."
- Etienne Fermie
GREEN SHOOTS
Former England goalkeeper Robert Green thinks that Arsenal's young side are learning 'harsh lessons'.
He told the BBC: "They are a young side and are learning as they go along.
"They've had some harsh lessons against the big sides who are brilliant exponents of other teams' weaknesses.
"It was a good, brave performance on the ball but off the ball there were some poor decisions. That's what Arteta will be frustrated with."
- Etienne Fermie
ART OF BATTLE
Mikel Arteta 'doesn't know' how to stop his players dropping off after going ahead- after giving away a 1-0 lead against Man United last night.
The Arsenal boss said: "Well I don’t know, it’s very difficult because when you are in [possession of] the ball, you have to make decisions – and I want to encourage them to do what they feel.
"But you know against those teams you get punished immediately, with the quality and amount of players that they can play (against) you straight away."
- Etienne Fermie
WHAT THE EL?
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta explained his decision to start Mohamed Elneny over Albert Sambi Lokonga last night.
He said: "[To be able] to play a player like him, with that experience that he has playing in this arena.
"He was incredibly good last year when he played here as well.
"He way he has been training, and the way he behaves, and because I believe that sometimes we have to rotate things for the game."
- Etienne Fermie
MAR TO COME
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta gave his thoughts on Gabriel Martinelli's performance against Manchester United last night, after the Brazilian was handed a rare start.
He said: "Yes he looked a threat.
"He had a big chance in the first half, and he probably should have played on.
"He created assists, he worked extremely hard, and he had some really good moments – he looked a threat."
Gabriel Martinelli celebrates Martin Odegaard's goalCredit: Getty - Etienne Fermie
LEW BEAUTY
Arsenal reportedly want to sign Everton forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin to replace Alexandre Lacazette, whose contract expires next summer.
The England international has missed the majority of this season with a fractured toe.
But it hasn't stopped him from attracting interest from a host of top clubs.
According to the Mirror, Arsenal want to sign Calvert-Lewin to replace Lacazette, who looks to be on his way out of the club.
The Frenchman, 30, is being tracked by clubs from across Europe, including Atletico Madrid, Newcastle, West Ham and Juventus.
- Etienne Fermie
BOTTOM THIERR
Arsenal legend Thierry Henry likened David de Gea to an 11-year-old after the Spaniard stayed down while Emile Smith Rowe put the Gunners 1-0 up at Old Trafford last night.
The Frenchman said: "The last time I saw that was when I was 11 and my goalkeeper went to have a sandwich and left his goal – and then we were 1-0 down."
Fortunately for De Gea, United went on to win 3-2.
- Etienne Fermie
SHEAR INEPTITUDE
David de Gea has been slammed for going down too easily in Manchester United's Premier League win over Arsenal.
The Spanish stopper went to ground in the 13th minute of Thursday night's 3-2 victory over the Gunners after team-mate Fred accidentally stood on the back of his foot.
Emile Smith Rowe's long-range effort whizzed past the crocked De Gea to give Arsenal the lead, although the Spaniard was back to his feet a few moments later.
And Premier League legend Alan Shearer believes the 31-year-old made a meal of the contact, saying: "I didn't see or hear the referee blow. I didn't see or hear a serious foul on the goalkeeper and it's only that his own player stands on him.
"I don't think I'm being too harsh here, but I don't think the game has changed that much. That happens in every game, someone standing on your foot or ankle.
"With him going down like that, not a care to where the ball is, yes they hurt. But I'm not sure he should be staying down like that. He's up on his feet a minute later anyway, so it couldn't have hurt that much.
"There's an argument, if there would've been a serious injury and he couldn't carry on and had to be stretchered off, then there's an argument in terms of fairness of play if Arsenal should've let Man Utd score.
"But he's up on his feet a moment later. He's walking around, he's not limping. I think you get them in every game."
- Etienne Fermie
'SLOPPY'
Mikel Arteta believes that his 'sloppy' Arsenal side threw three points away against Manchester United last night.
The Spaniard said: "No I think we were sloppy in possession.
"We gave the ball away to the opponent, and we had no pressure there. That created strong momentum that allowed them to run, and they had the structure to play – and suddenly we started to give the ball away.
"So many unforced errors that led to them having belief that they could do something in the game. I didn’t see a team with the handbrake, I saw a team that wanted to impose (themselves) here.
"They were dominant, we played with the right structure and the right freedom at the same time.
"But we didn’t defend our box well enough well, and manage some situations well enough to concede the way did."
- Chisanga Malata
MORNING, ARSENAL FANS
Cristiano Ronaldo's double whammy ended Arsenal's fine run.
But the Gunners remain fifth – a point and a place above Spurs – despite Manchester United's 3-2 comeback win at Old Trafford.
Emile Smith Rowe bagged a deserved but controversial opener as VAR confirmed that United keeper David de Gea was NOT fouled as he lay injured.
But Bruno Fernandes and Ronaldo's 800th career goal put the Red Devils 2-1 up.
Martin Odegaard instantly levelled, only for VAR to intervene and sink the Gunners.
Midfielder Odegaard's foul on Fred enabled Ron to smash United's 70th minute penalty winner.
Gunners' skipper Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang said: "We are a bit disappointed because the team played very well.
"You need to be clinical defensively and offensively and you have to do the perfect game because of the quality of Manchester United.
"Compared to the game against Liverpool at Anfield we did better. It was very unlucky because I think the team deserved better."
Off the pitch, Gunners' target Isco is reportedly refusing to warm up for Real Madrid as the Spain midfielder heads for a Bernabeu exit.
- Ian Tuckey
PITCH INVADER SLAM SUNK
A pitch invader was slammed to the ground by security during Manchester United’s 3-2 win over Arsenal.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Co watched on in astonishment as the supporter charged the field late on in the Old Trafford clash.
The person managed to make it all the way up to Ronaldo as United attempted to keep the Gunners at bay from a corner.
However, the pitch invader couldn’t make it all the way to Ronnie and his team-mates.
As the person approached the players, security finally caught up with them.
And they were hurled to the ground with a move more akin to a rugby field.
The crowd cheered as security then dragged the pitch invader off with just minutes left in the game.
And there was very soon a louder roar as United secured a pivotal win over Mikel Arteta’s men.
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