This weekend’s Premier League fixtures promise storylines across the table – from relegation battles to top-four ambitions and a fiery north London derby. Here are the 10 biggest things to watch out for.
Alejandro Garnacho is settling in well at Chelsea, and a showdown on the flank with Burnley’s veteran defender Kyle Walker adds spice to their meeting at Turf Moor. The winger impressed before the break and will be key to Chelsea’s attacking thrust.
Bournemouth, meanwhile, need Antoine Semenyo more than ever. Despite rumours of a £65m clause and top-six interest, the winger’s goals and energy are crucial to helping the Cherries end a worrying slump as they take on a resurgent West Ham.
Danny Welbeck, turning 35 soon, has surprisingly emerged as a possible England backup striker. With six league goals already, he has been Brighton’s most reliable finisher and can strengthen his case against Brentford.
At Fulham, Ryan Sessegnon has become both creator and finisher during an injury-hit spell for the squad. With Fulham facing tough fixtures, the club needs him firing on all cylinders to avoid sliding into danger.
Liverpool are desperate for Alexander Isak to finally ignite his season. Returning from a groin injury, the £125m striker’s sharpness will be tested against a Forest side that has caused Liverpool problems in the past.
Wolves’ new boss Rob Edwards has stepped into chaos. Winless and leaky at the back, Wolves must tighten up fast, starting with Crystal Palace, if they hope to climb away from early-season crisis.
Newcastle continue to struggle without Yoane Wissa, whose speed and directness are sorely missed. Up against Manchester City, they’ll once again rely on Nick Woltemade, a playmaker forced into a striker role.
Leeds manager Daniel Farke is under pressure as poor form continues. A tough run of fixtures makes the Villa clash decisive for restoring belief and avoiding speculation about his future.
Arsenal and Tottenham meet in a north London derby overshadowed by injuries. Both sides face depleted squads, but with strong home and away records respectively, the stakes are enormous for the title race.
Finally, Manchester United’s resurgence leans heavily on Amad Diallo, whose creativity has sparked their attack. With key players missing, he will again be central as United face Everton before departing for AFCON.
