Football writer Alex Keble analyzes where this weekend’s fixtures could be won and lost, including:
– Can Marmoush and Gonzalez derail Liverpool’s title charge?
– Which makeshift striker will come out on top?
– Will Chelsea’s Palmer rediscover his form?
– Can Tottenham get revenge on Ipswich?
– Will Moyes’ resolute Everton defense keep Manchester United scoreless?
– Can Fulham break into the European places?
– Which Champions League-chasing team will get back on track?
– Will Brighton struggle against another low-block setup?
– Can free-scoring Bournemouth blitz Wolves?
– Can Leicester stop Brentford’s new-found away success?
Can Marmoush and Gonzalez derail Liverpool’s title charge?
Manchester City’s 3-1 Champions League defeat to Real Madrid is a result Pep Guardiola will want to forget, but it may lead to a tactical rethink for Liverpool’s visit on Sunday.
Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Aston Villa on Wednesday has added significance, as it could allow Arsenal to move within three points of the leaders if they win their game in hand.
Liverpool have won just one of their last four matches, and they could be vulnerable to the adjustments Guardiola made in City’s 4-0 win over Newcastle. Omar Marmoush’s movement and Nico Gonzalez’s “mini-Rodri” presence in midfield could help City adopt a more direct approach and destabilize Liverpool’s defense.
Which makeshift striker will come out on top?
Arsenal face pressure to capitalize on Liverpool’s slip-up, but the visit of West Ham brings back painful memories. In last season’s fixture, Arsenal dominated but failed to score, highlighting their striker issues.
This time, both teams are struggling to find a recognized No. 9. Evan Ferguson impressed off the bench for West Ham, while Arsenal’s options remain uncertain.
Mikel Merino’s aerial ability could be crucial, but West Ham’s defense is also vulnerable to crosses. The outcome of this battle between makeshift strikers could determine the direction of Arsenal’s title challenge.
Chelsea need Cole Palmer to rediscover his form, as they look to bounce back from a difficult run of results. Facing a makeshift Aston Villa defense offers an opportunity for Palmer and Chelsea to get back on track.
Tottenham have a chance to bookend their recent troubles by getting revenge on Ipswich, who defeated them earlier in the season. Spurs’ high-octane performance against Manchester United hinted at a revival, but they must prove it against a more assertive Ipswich side.
Everton’s organized defense could pose problems for a Manchester United attack that has struggled for goals. David Moyes has a history of troubling his former club, and he’ll back his team to frustrate United once again.
Fulham can move into the European places by beating Crystal Palace, continuing their impressive run of form. With a favorable upcoming schedule, Marco Silva’s side have a chance to cement their place in the top half of the table.
Both Newcastle and Nottingham Forest will be eager to get back on track in their pursuit of Champions League football. With the race for the top four so tight, this clash could have a significant impact on their respective campaigns.
Brighton’s struggles against low-block setups could continue at Southampton, despite their impressive win over Chelsea. Kaoru Mitoma’s return to form may be crucial in unlocking the Saints’ defense.
Bournemouth’s free-scoring attack could cause problems for a leaky Wolves defense, as the Cherries look to cement their place in the top four. Iraola’s side have been one of the league’s most impressive attacking teams this season.
Leicester desperately need a win at home against Brentford, who have found their away form of late. The Foxes’ struggles at the King Power Stadium could continue, unless they can find a way to stop the Bees’ momentum.
Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the thrilling action unfold this weekend! It promises to be a captivating round of Premier League fixtures with crucial implications for the title race, European spots, and relegation battle.
