The third round of the FA Cup promises an exciting clash as defending champions Manchester United take on Arsenal, the team with the most FA Cup titles in history. Arsenal, who have claimed the trophy 14 times, are set to face off in a match filled with significance beyond football.
Both teams traditionally wear red as their primary color, but this game will be an exception. Manchester United will play in their blue away kit, while Arsenal will wear an all-white strip. The London club’s decision to adopt this kit supports the “No More Red” campaign, which raises awareness about crime prevention, particularly knife violence, symbolized by the red color of blood.
This campaign, launched in 2008 following the tragic murder of 16-year-old Arsenal fan Ben Kinsella, has gained momentum through a partnership between Arsenal, Adidas, and a foundation established to address youth violence. The initiative remains critically relevant, with recent tragedies such as the fatal stabbing of 14-year-old Keilan Bokassa in London.
The upcoming match will be the fourth time Arsenal wear their white kit, which has brought them just one win so far—against Oxford United in the 2023 FA Cup. Arsenal’s young star Miles Lewis-Skelly emphasized the importance of the campaign, stating, “It’s really important that we’re bringing attention to this.”
He added, “Arsenal’s values focus on helping people, supporting their growth, and providing a foundation of support. Through this campaign, we’re doing everything we can to make a difference.”
Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, after expressing concerns about match balls in the recent defeat to Newcastle, now faces new challenges as his team prepares to take on Manchester United.
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