The Manchester derby on Sunday afternoon is the standout match in the Premier League this weekend, as Manchester United host Manchester City at a delicate moment in the campaign.
Although they have won their last two matches, United have been far from convincing, with a narrow win away to rock-bottom Sheffield United and a 1-0 victory at home to Copenhagen in midweek.
Three points against their neighbours would confirm hopes of a recovery for United, but a defeat would again raise doubts over the team, and perhaps over coach Erik ten Hag.
City were boosted by the return of Jack Grealish in their midweek Uefa Champions League win over Young Boys, and Grealish’s talent in attack and bite in the challenge will add an extra dimension to the play of Pep Guardiola’s side.
Arsenal have a doubt over the fitness of in-form striker Gabriel Jesus for their home game against Sheffield United, although they will still be clear favourites against a rival that has yet to win on their return to the top-flight.
Eddie Nketiah will probably lead the Arsenal attack, while the debate continues over whether Aaron Ramsdale should return in goal for David Raya, who has been inconsistent after moving to north London.
Chelsea were frustrated as Arsenal came back from two goals down to draw 2-2 at Stamford Bridge last weekend, but the overall performance showed that Mauricio Pochettino’s side is making progress.
Chelsea host Brentford on Saturday and will hope their confidence can be a factor and that Cole Palmer can continue to operate successfully in a deep ‘number nine’ role, which allows him to threaten in attack while helping close gaps in central midfield.
Bournemouth coach Andoni Iraola survived last week’s home defeat to Wolverhampton, but with his side second from bottom and without a win, it’s hard to imagine he will continue if his side fail to beat Burnley at home.
Wolves’ win at Bournemouth means they are unbeaten in their last four games, with two wins and two draws. Coach Gary O’Neil’s credibility will continue to rise if they can beat Newcastle, who have lost Alexander Isak to injury and whose Italian midfielder Sandro Tonali starts a 10-month ban for betting irregularities.
West Ham have had a tough week with a 4-1 defeat to Aston Villa and a 2-1 loss to Olympiacos. That means Everton coach Sean Dyche will think his side may be able to end a week marked by the threat of a 12-point deduction for breaching financial fair-play rules on a more positive note when they visit the London Stadium.
Aston Villa have climbed to fifth in the table with 13 points from the last 15 and with Leon Bailey, Douglas Luiz and Ollie Watkins on fire, they should have few problems at home to Luton Town.
Liverpool rested key players for their 5-1 Uefa Europa League win at home to Toulouse on Thursday but should expect more problems breaking down a resolute Nottingham Forest side on Sunday afternoon.
Brighton also enjoyed a Europa League win on Thursday and coach Roberto De Zerbi will be happy to see Ansu Fati starting to find his form in front of goal after hitting the target against Ajax and Manchester City ahead of their home game against Fulham.
