The Dutchman will receive a guard of honour from his former team-mates on his first return to his old club as Sir Alex Ferguson’s champions’ take on the Gunners

Robin van Persie starts for Manchester United on his first return to the Emirates Stadium since leaving Arsenal last summer.

The Dutchman is named as part of a strong side, playing just ahead of Wayne Rooney, who will receive a guard of honour from the Gunners after confirming their 20th English title on Monday.

Home manager Arsene Wenger has elected not to start Jack Wilshere, who continues to be eased back into action following injury, with Tomas Rosicky in his place behind the striker.

Lukas Podolski is the forward for the Gunners, with Olivier Giroud beginning  his three-game suspension as Arsene Wenger makes just two changes from the side that beat Fulham, with Kieran Gibbs replacing Nacho Monreal, the only other change.

Arsenal starting XI: Szczesny; Sagna, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Gibbs; Arteta, Ramsey; Walcott, Rosicky, Cazorla; Podolski
Subs: Mannone, Vermaelen, Jenkinson, Monreal, Wilshere, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Gervinho

Manchester United starting XI: De Gea; Rafael, Evans, Ferdinand, Evra; Valencia, Carrick, Jones, Nani; Rooney, Van Persie
Subs: Lindegaard, Anderson, Giggs, Hernandez, Cleverley, Kagawa, Buttner