Although 'only' a quarter-final, this game has the feeling of something more resembling a showpiece final with the FA Cup the only remaining chance of silverware for both sides.
United and Louis van Gaal are looking to mark the Dutchman's first season in England with a trophy and current holders Arsenal are bidding to retain the cup they won last term.
van Gaal said on Thursday:
"I want to achieve the goals we've set and that goal is to reach the top four and a trophy would be fantastic.
"When you win it has a good influence on the next game, after the defeat at Swansea we won two games and kept two clean sheets, so we have a good feeling.
"As I have said, we're in a rat race in the Premier League and whoever wins on Monday will have good momentum for the league games."
Robin van Persie remains United's only injury absentee and misses this game against his old side and Jonny Evans begins his six-match ban for spitting but LVG has an otherwise full squad to pick from
A notable subplot to an already mouth- watering tie is the first Old Trafford return of former United forward Danny Welbeck.
Van Gaal added:
"I think if we beat them it is a big blow for them and if they beat us then it is a big blow for us, it is a very important game, not only in the FA Cup but also in the rat race.
"We have the support of our fans at home but Arsenal shall bring a lot of fans also.
"I hope we can give a fantastic match for them and of course if we win we can play at Wembley, so it is very important."
Form guide: United D W W L W W Arsenal W W W L W W
Match odds: United 19/4 Draw 5/2 Arsenal 11/5
Referee: Michael Oliver
United's quarter final with Arsenal is the last match of the FA Cup weekend and will be televised live on BBC One.
The Reds last won the FA Cup in 2004.
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