Our football pundit breaks down the top five talking points and potential game-changing outcomes to look out for in this weekend’s thrilling English Premier League fixtures.
This weekend’s Premier League is packed with mouth-watering clashes, headlined by Manchester City’s highly anticipated trip to Anfield. With Everton at attractive 10/1 odds against Tottenham Hotspur, and Manchester United set to host Stoke City — their last three encounters ending in draws — there’s plenty to keep punters on the edge of their seats. Let’s dive into some of the standout moments that could define the weekend’s action.
Liverpool Gear Up for City Showdown Amidst Coutinho Departure
All eyes will be on how Liverpool adapt without their star winger Coutinho, fresh off his staggering £142m transfer to Barcelona earlier this week. Jürgen Klopp would have preferred to keep his talisman for such a pivotal clash, but now the Reds must rally and prove their mettle.
Manchester City have been a formidable force this season, with only Shakhtar Donetsk managing to claim victory against them competitively. Liverpool’s tactical approach will be fascinating to observe — expect the lethal trio of Sadio Mane, Mo Salah, and Roberto Firmino to spearhead the attack, supported by either Adam Lallana or Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain at the number 10 role behind the ‘false nine’.
The midfield composition is where the intrigue lies; Emre Can is likely to start despite limited mobility, while the absence of Jordan Henderson means James Milner could take up defensive duties shielding the backline.
Virgil van Dijk’s arrival has strengthened a previously vulnerable defence. His partnership with Joel Matip combines aggression and calm, while full-backs Joe Gomez and Andrew Robertson have impressed greatly of late. Don’t be shocked if Liverpool hand Guardiola one of his rare league defeats this season.
Everton’s 10/1 Price Tag Seems Underrated
I was genuinely surprised to see Everton offered at 10/1 against Spurs this weekend. Despite a shaky start, Sam Allardyce’s coaching has revitalised the Toffees, who’ve only suffered two defeats in eight Premier League games under his helm.
Tottenham, meanwhile, are grappling with inconsistency. An impressive four-game winning run was halted last week in a 1-1 home draw against West Ham. The move to Wembley Stadium, with its larger pitch and notorious traffic snarls, appears to unsettle Spurs. Plus, the allure of playing at the historic National Stadium ignites determination among visiting teams.
Even though Everton dropped their last two league matches, they’re primed for a fierce battle at Wembley. At 10/1, they represent a fantastic outside bet — make sure you don’t miss this cracking opportunity!
Burnley Eager to Bounce Back Against Rising Crystal Palace
While Burnley’s recent form shows five league games without a win, it’s important to remember three of those were against heavyweights Tottenham, Manchester United, and Liverpool.
The Clarets have been the surprising story of the season so far. Securing a big win against an ascending Crystal Palace would be a vital confidence booster and could be the turning point in their campaign.
Is Sanchez’s Time at Arsenal Coming to an End?
The transfer tug-of-war over Alexis Sanchez intensifies. While Manchester City seemed favourites, recent reports indicate Manchester United are making a stronger push with a superior offer, including a lucrative salary, a better club fee, and even offering Arsenal Henrikh Mkhitaryan as part of the package. Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, however, remains firm on keeping Sanchez, whose contract runs until season’s end.
Whether Sanchez features against Bournemouth away this weekend remains uncertain. His substitute appearance in the EFL Cup semifinal versus Chelsea fuelled speculation about the club’s plans beyond him.
Can Stoke City Survive the Monday Night Challenge at Old Trafford?
Stoke City face a tough Monday evening at Manchester United following their FA Cup exit after losing to Coventry City, leading to Mark Hughes’ sacking. Interim coach Eddie Niedzwiecki, Hughes’ former assistant, leads the Potters against a well-rested United squad returning from Dubai training. The last three matches between these clubs ended in draws, including a thrilling 2-2 at Stoke in September which ended United’s flawless start. It’s a tall order for Stoke to earn anything but a surge of hope exists in football’s unpredictability.
