The FOUR key games Manchester United must win to claim Champions League spot ahead of Arsenal

Manchester United have nine games remaining this season to try and secure themselves a Champions League spot.

The Red Devils sit fifth in the Premier League going into the international break, one point behind Arsenal in fourth and having played an extra game than the Gunners.

Their form going into the break isn’t what they would want it to be, only winning one of their last five games in all competitions, including a 1-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid last time out.

With no pieces of silverware able to be won after their European exit, and the club sitting just outside of the top four, it is vital they do their utmost to finish above those in and around them.

Let’s take a look at the four key games United really need to win if they want to claim the final Champions League spot this campaign.

United vs Leicester City - 2 April

The first game back after international duty against Leicester City is vital for the Red Devils pursuit for a top four finish, especially since Arsenal take on Aston Villa on Saturday and could move four points clear of United with a win.

If the gap between the Gunners and Ralf Rangnick’s side is extended then a win over Leicester is vital to, one get back to winning ways, and two reclose the difference in the league standings.

Liverpool vs United - 19 April

The Red Devils trip to Anfield is important for their push for the top four as well as getting revenge on their rivals after an embarrassing 5-0 defeat to Liverpool earlier this season.

Rangnick’s side could also assist their neighbours Manchester City in their push for the Premier League title if they secure the three points in Merseyside.

Arsenal vs United - 23 April

United’s away fixture to their nearest competition for a Champions League spot on 23 April is arguably their biggest fixture remaining this season.

If the journey to north London doesn’t see them return to Manchester with three points, especially if they fall to defeat against the Gunners, their hopes of a top four finish could be all but over.

United vs Chelsea - 15 May

The Red Devils’ second to last game of the season sees them come up against Chelsea at Old Trafford.

A win for United here, especially if they secure a victory at the Emirates Stadium beforehand, could all but seal them a fourth-place finish depending on results against other teams.

Below are the Red Devils’ remaining nine games:

United vs Leicester - April 2

Everton vs United - April 9

United vs Norwich City - April 16

Liverpool vs United - April 19

Arsenal vs United - April 23

United vs Brentford - May 2

Brighton & Hove Albion vs United - May 7

United vs Chelsea - May 15

Crystal Palace vs United - May 22