ClapThe Premier League is back once again this weekend for another string of exciting fixtures, and fans had better soak in what they can get from the ten games as we prepare for yet another international break.
From Friday through to Sunday all 20 clubs will battle it out in an attempt to build some more momentum prior to the aforementioned break. While eight of those match-ups are bound to give us plenty of talking points, there are two that easily stand out above the rest.
The rivalry between the cities of Manchester and Liverpool has been well documented for years now and you could argue it extends far beyond the realms of football. Sure, the beautiful game has helped to further the divide, but those who reside within both locations are passionate in their defence of their beloved city.
On Saturday and then again on Sunday, we will see all four major clubs from the two cities colliding in two fairly substantial derbies.
Everton vs Manchester United
While it may not be a traditional rivalry, Everton and Manchester United will head into this game with the sort of passion and tenacity that would lead you to believe the two clubs are bitter enemies. The Toffees were able to start the new season off like a house on fire whereas on the other hand, United’s form resembles a relegation scrap as opposed to a team capable of finishing in the top 4 again.
This is an opportunity for Everton to get back on track after a few questionable results, and in comparison to the Red Devils, they don’t have quite as much pressure on their shoulders.
We think this is going to be the definition of a tight affair, and those hoping for an all-time classic may need to look elsewhere over the next few days. In the end, though, we actually think United will win to save Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s job for another week.
Manchester City vs Liverpool
This one game probably isn’t going to decide the Premier League title race, but it will give us a pretty good idea of where both teams are at. City are still favorites to win the title with a lot of bookmakers but if you take one look at the table, Liverpool are starting to get into the kind of rhythm that saw them walk to the trophy last season.
The games between City and the Reds during the Pep vs Klopp era have almost always been entertaining, and yet while we do think there will be something to be said for the style of football that is played, we don’t think there will be all too many goals.
We’re going to predict a 0-0 draw and that should leave City fans wondering whether or not this will be another year in which their best hopes of silverware come from the Champions League, FA Cup and Carabao Cup.
If Liverpool are indeed held by Pep’s men, Leicester City and Tottenham Hotspur could wind up leapfrogging them in the table. Buckle up, folks.
