Premier League: 10 Things to Watch Out For This Weekend
As six of the seven English teams taking part in European competitions are reeling from their travels this week, the new Premier League matchday is almost upon us already. The joys of December, right?
Hopefully you have already set up your Fantasy Premier League team according to our expert advice, so now you can sit back, relax and read about the Premier League talking points for the weekend ahead.
Dyche Faces Tough Arsenal Test
Arsenal vs Everton – Saturday, 3 PM UTC
Sean Dyche’s Everton face a daunting challenge as they travel to the Emirates to meet Arsenal. Historically, the Toffees have posed a threat to Mikel Arteta’s side, with victories under Carlo Ancelotti and Rafael Benítez.
However, Dyche’s last three meetings with Arsenal have ended in defeat, and Everton’s sole away win this season came against Ipswich in October – their last away goal as well. Meanwhile, Arsenal boast a 14-game unbeaten streak at home. With the January transfer window looming, Dyche admitted the Friedkin Group’s proposed takeover is “looking very possible” but remains unfinished.
Expect set-piece drama – Arsenal lead the league with 23 goals from corners since last season, while 57% of Everton’s goals this term stem from set pieces.
Iwobi Key to Fulham’s Anfield Hopes
Liverpool vs Fulham – Saturday, 3 PM UTC
Liverpool’s nine-point lead atop the table has dwindled to four following a draw with Newcastle and last weekend’s derby postponement. Despite this, Arne Slot’s side remain resilient, securing a 1-0 Champions League win over Girona.
Fulham, unbeaten in their last three games, present a stern test. Marco Silva has praised Alex Iwobi’s remarkable form. The midfielder, pivotal since his move to Craven Cottage, netted twice in a central role during their Brighton victory.
With Alexis MacAllister suspended, Liverpool may find Iwobi a formidable opponent as Fulham aim to exploit their rivals’ absences.
Van Nistelrooy Pays Tribute to Robson
Newcastle vs Leicester – Saturday, 3 PM UTC
Ruud van Nistelrooy returns to St James’ Park with Leicester, where he’ll likely pay homage to Sir Bobby Robson’s statue. The legendary manager mentored Van Nistelrooy at PSV Eindhoven and later recommended him to Manchester United.
Reflecting on his fond memories, Van Nistelrooy said, “He was a wonderful man … always talking about improvement and team spirit.” Leicester remain unbeaten under Van Nistelrooy and could close the gap to Newcastle to three points with a win.
O’Neil Looks to Science for Survival
Wolves vs Ipswich – Saturday, 3 PM UTC
Despite losing Monday’s “El Sackico” to West Ham, Wolves manager Gary O’Neil retains the backing of chairman Jeff Shi, who emphasised positivity and scientific approaches to success in his weekly column: “Success in the game is largely a science. I believe in the power of positivity because negativity achieves nothing. Just as atoms remain atoms, how we perceive, combine, and connect them defines their collective value.”
Wolves host Ipswich in a relegation six-pointer. Shi’s promise to maintain perspective could be key to the club’s strategy, with this match potentially pivotal for their survival hopes.
Forest Chase European Return
Nottingham Forest vs Aston Villa – Saturday, 5:30 PM UTC
Nottingham Forest’s remarkable victories at Anfield and Old Trafford have sparked aspirations of European football. Nuno Espírito Santo’s team currently sit fifth, above Aston Villa on goal difference, and have a favourable fixture run before facing Liverpool in mid-January.
Although Nuno downplays expectations, fans are hopeful for the club’s first European campaign since 1995-96.
Hürzeler Meets Mentor in A23 Derby
Brighton vs Crystal Palace – Sunday, 2 PM UTC
The A23 derby often produces tight encounters, with six of the last 10 meetings ending 1-1. However, Brighton’s resurgence against their rivals has seen them remain unbeaten in six games. Manager Fabian Hürzeler, influenced by Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner’s tactics, has settled well in the Premier League. Sunday’s clash will test both managers’ ability to sustain momentum.
Amorim Tackles Guardiola in Manchester Derby
Manchester City vs Manchester United – Sunday, 4:30 PM UTC
Ruben Amorim faces his first Manchester derby against Pep Guardiola’s struggling City. Despite Amorim’s recent setbacks, including defeats to Arsenal and Nottingham Forest, City’s poor form provides a glimmer of hope.
Guardiola’s side have just one win in 10 matches, and United could capitalise on this rare opportunity where the pressure is greater on their rivals.
Brentford Seek Stamford Bridge Redemption
Chelsea vs Brentford – Sunday, 7 PM UTC
Thomas Frank’s Brentford hope a short trip to Chelsea might end their dismal away form. Despite being the league’s best home team, the Bees have struggled on the road. However, they’ve won on their last three visits to Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea, fresh off a 7,000-mile trip to Kazakhstan, may be vulnerable, although Enzo Maresca’s squad rotation could limit fatigue.
Martin and Postecoglou Share Ideals
Southampton vs Tottenham – Sunday, 7 PM UTC
Southampton’s dire form leaves them eight points adrift of safety. Russell Martin’s commitment to his tactical approach mirrors that of Tottenham’s Ange Postecoglou. Both managers face criticism for perceived stubbornness but remain steadfast in their philosophies. Sunday’s clash pits two managers determined to prove their methods can deliver results.
Basque Battle in Bournemouth
Bournemouth vs West Ham – Monday, 8 PM UTC
The Premier League’s Basque contingent takes centre stage as Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth host Julen Lopetegui’s West Ham. Iraola’s strong start has seen Bournemouth climb to mid-table, while Lopetegui’s position remains precarious. A win for the Cherries could heap further pressure on West Ham and spark managerial speculation. Expect a fiercely contested encounter.
Keep visiting EPLNews.org for previews and reports during what promises to be a thrilling Premier League weekend full of high-stakes action and compelling narratives.