Grandkids 0, Atuk 1: PM Anwar savours Man Utd victory over Arsenal-loving family

SHAH ALAM – For Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, some of the fiercest rivalries do not play out in Parliament, but at home with his grandchildren.

The Prime Minister drew laughter when he jokingly revealed a light-hearted “tension” with his grandchildren over football loyalties, following Manchester United’s dramatic victory over Arsenal.

Speaking at the launch of the 120th Anniversary of the National Audit Department today, Anwar thanked the crowd for what he termed “good news” before admitting that his grandchildren, staunch Arsenal supporters may not have shared his delight.

“Thank you as well for the good news of Manchester United’s win last night.

“This is a bit personal. There has been a little tension with my grandchildren; they support Arsenal,” he said.

The light-hearted remark struck a chord with the audience, offering a rare glimpse into the Prime Minister’s life beyond the political arena, where football loyalties spark friendly banter across generations.

A well-known "die-hard" Manchester United supporter, Anwar has previously spoken about standing firm in his allegiance to the English Premier League club, even while being surrounded by family members who back rival teams.

He has joked in the past that whenever United suffer a defeat, he becomes the primary target for teasing, with his grandchildren calling him “ancient” for his devotion to the Red Devils.

However, the tables turned this weekend.

Manchester United edged out Arsenal in a thrilling 3–2 clash at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.

A late winner from Matheus Cunha secured the points for United, handing Anwar a rare moment of victory both on the pitch and at the dinner table.

For a brief moment, the Prime Minister’s role as national leader gave way to that of a triumphant football fan and grandfather.