Before we head into the international break, the Premier League is serving up a final weekend of thrilling fixtures. Here's what we’re looking forward to!
Arsenal have kicked off their Premier League campaign in style, securing 2-0 victories against both Wolverhampton and Aston Villa. Their dominant display at Villa Park last weekend is a clear signal that they’re not easing up in their pursuit of Manchester City for the title. With two clean sheets, the Gunners have showcased their defensive prowess, achieving something they haven’t done since the 1971/72 season—winning their opening two matches without conceding a goal. As they prepare to face Brighton, history gives Arsenal the edge, having won three of their last four Premier League encounters. However, the Seagulls have proven to be a tough challenge at the Emirates, winning three of their last five visits. While Arsenal’s start has been spectacular, Brighton’s strong form means they’re more than capable of giving Arteta’s side a tough match.
Brighton couldn’t have wished for a better start to the season, kicking things off with a 3-0 win over Everton, clinching a late victory against Manchester United, and dominating Crawley 4-0 in the Carabao Cup. The Seagulls have been in fine scoring form, and the young manager Fabian Hurzeler will be confident in his team’s ability to trouble Arsenal’s defence on Saturday afternoon. While their last visit to the Emirates ended in a 2-0 defeat, Brighton have won three of their last five meetings at Arsenal. However, they’ve come up short in their last two Premier League encounters with Arsenal, failing to score in either. This season, though, Brighton’s attack looks more dangerous than ever, and they’re poised to give Arsenal a tough challenge.
Team picks
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Newcastle may be unbeaten this season, but their start hasn’t been entirely convincing. The Magpies began with a narrow 1-0 win over Southampton, followed by a 1-1 draw with Bournemouth, and a nail-biting 4-3 penalty shootout victory over Forest in the Carabao Cup. Howe’s side has shown some struggle in front of goal – leading to difficulties putting these games to bed. However, a clash with Tottenham promises to be a high-scoring affair. Newcastle have won their last two matches against Spurs at St. James’ Park, netting an impressive 10 goals across those games. Historically, they’ve won three of their last five encounters with Tottenham, but this is a fixture that could go either way, making it difficult to predict a clear winner.
Tottenham’s 2024/2025 Premier League campaign started on shaky ground with a 1-1 draw against Leicester, but they quickly bounced back with a commanding 4-0 victory over Everton. The road ahead in the Premier League is tough, with fixtures against Newcastle, Arsenal, Man United, Brighton, and West Ham in their next six matches. A win here is crucial to avoid an early-season drop-off. Recent visits to St. James’ Park haven’t been kind to Spurs, suffering heavy 4-0 and 6-1 defeats. However, with Newcastle’s form uncertain, this could be an opportunity to build on their momentum from the Everton win. While picking a winner is tough, one thing is certain—this match promises goals. Eight of their last ten meetings have ended with over 2.5 goals and six of those with over 3.5.
Team picks
Anytime goalscorer - Son Heung-min
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Manchester United vs Liverpool
A new Premier League season, but it’s the same old story for Manchester United. The Red Devils started with a narrow 1-0 win over Fulham but couldn’t build on that momentum, losing all three points to Brighton last weekend. Once again, it’s hard to predict which United will show up on match day, as they continue to struggle with consistency—something they desperately need before hosting Liverpool. United’s last two Premier League games against the Reds ended in draws, but the memory of the 7-0 defeat in early 2023 still lingers. Adding to their woes, Liverpool handed them a 3-0 defeat in pre-season, and with United’s shaky form and Liverpool’s strong start, it’s shaping up to be a tough challenge for Ten Hag’s side on Sunday.
Arne Slot has made a perfect start to his Liverpool reign, kicking off the 2024/2025 Premier League campaign with comfortable 2-0 victories over Ipswich and Brentford—securing six easy points. With the competition fierce this season, earning three points in Manchester before the international break will be crucial. Liverpool have enjoyed a strong run of form against Manchester United in recent Premier League meetings, losing just one of their last five encounters. Despite a 4-3 FA Cup exit to United last season, the Reds have bounced back, drawing 2-2 in their last league meeting and dominating United 3-0 in pre-season. While this fixture can be unpredictable, it’s hard to see a shaky United side overcoming a high-flying Liverpool outfit. Expect an open game with goals from both sides, making it an exciting watch for the neutrals.
Teams picks