Inter and Manchester United Remind Us They're Still Here

The Premier League and Serie A delivered two huge clashes this weekend with the defending champions reminding any other pretenders to the crown just who they were dealing with. Both Manchester United and Inter Milan had begun their title defenses somewhat shakily, but when they faced off with their main rivals, they were able to find two very different victories.

In England, Manchester United can consider themselves lucky after defeating a splendid Arsenal side, 2-1, on Saturday. The Gunners, with their Russian magician Andrei Arshavin took the lead right before half-time. Arshavin’s incredible strike had them in the driver’s seat and two missed opportunities after the break could have put the game away.

Manuel Almunia let United back in the game by gifting a needless penalty to Wayne Rooney (see photo) and then Abou Diaby did him one better. He actually saved United the trouble of putting the ball in the net for the second goal by heading it there himself.

Though United never looked the better side, it was a sharp reminder that it is far too soon to discount them from this Premier League race.

Inter Milan, meanwhile, left no shadow of a doubt when they faced A.C. Milan. Though some had wondered what was happening to the Nerazzuri after a 1-1 draw with Bari last week, they came back with a marvelous performance to smash A.C. Milan, 4-0 on Sunday.