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Published 18:18 4 Oct 2015 BST
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Of course, a team isn't going to perform to such a high level in every game, but one would expect some consistency from a team with such quality.
However, that's never the case with Arsenal.
If Manchester City, United or even Chelsea produced such a convincing performance, then they'd be considered genuine title contenders, but not Arsenal.
You can be almost certain they won't win the league, and this performance was just a reminder of what the side is capable of, before inevitably coming undone as the season goes on.
It must be so frustrating to be a Gunners fan
Both of United's central midfielders were made look their age, and simply couldn't deal with the speed of Arsenal's attacks. The absence of the more physical Morgan Schneiderlin was costly and difficult to fathom.
Arsenal's performance showed that possession football doesn't automatically equate to sterile possession, and it's Van Gaal, rather than Wenger, who was left looking tactically limited.
Ashley Young played as you would expect a winger to perform at full-back, while Chris Smalling, who has been excellent thus far this season, and Daley Blind also struggled. Blind has looked impressive stepping into midfield, and is a capable, technical footballer, but he is also vulnerable when up against physical players.
Bafetimbi Gomis gave him a rough time during Swansea's 2-1 victory, and Blind lot his physical duel with the pacey Walcott today.
During the opening month of the season, it looked as though United's defence would be their strongest asset this season. Not anymore.
Players have been dropped and sold on the basis of performances like Wayne Rooney put in this season, but the United captain remains in the team.
Why? What does he bring to United? What signs has he offered that he's not in terminal decline?
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