The Premier League’s busiest round yet is here! What games can we look forward to?

For many fans, the two-week wait for the return of the Premier League has been a long one, perhaps because of the blockbusters on the schedule this weekend. The two city derbies will be complemented by two clashes between other European Cup hopefuls.

Saturday

Liverpool vs. Everton

To the Merseyside derby only briefly this time. Both Liverpool and Everton have picked themselves up after an embarrassing start, the home side needing to stay in touch with the front, the visitors to confirm a bounce away from the relegation zone. The match is hosted by Anfield, which in the early days belonged to Everton.

The favourite is clear though, after all the Reds have only lost one of their last 28 games.

Chelsea vs. Arsenal

An obvious affair for some, but there are a few buts against Arsenal. Bukay Saka’s health is a question mark and it’s also worth mentioning the statistic that the favourites don’t have it easy in their first game after the national team break. Moreover, away.

Chelsea hinted at potential at the beginning of October, Raheem Sterling shone again after a couple of poor performances and he did well against Arsenal. Without or with Saka, that will be a very important factor. It was a tactical chess match against the Citizens, but this time the Gunners are expected to conquer.

Manchester City vs. Brighton

A hidden game behind two derbies that has the potential to be the best game of the weekend. The Citizens need a win after two losses in a row, but Brighton can take on big teams, even on away soil.

The Seagulls haven’t really been enjoying the English weeks so far, but this time the players will be relatively rested, while Pep Guardiola’s squad is basically gone during the national team reunion. Roberto de Zerbi is still learning and improving, will that be enough this time?

Sunday

Aston Villa vs. West Ham

Apparently they’ll be battling it out for sixth or seventh place again this season. The Villans are strong at home, winning ten league rounds in a row, a club record for this century. At home against the Hammers, they will definitely be the favourites.

The visitors are playing well beyond expectations, and have filled out their squad well. However, it will be enough to roll the dice, having given a six to Brighton or an eight to Hibernian at home this season. Moreover, with Emiliano Martínez in goal, who pulls the record streak in the Argentine national team without scoring.

Source: Premier League