(Football News) Manchester City, the reigning champions, are likely to secure a three-point lead before their primary competitors have even begun their campaigns this weekend.
In pursuit of a fourth consecutive title and sixth within seven years, Pep Guardiola’s triumphant treble-winning team embarks on a journey to face promoted Burnley. Notably, Vincent Kompany, the former City captain, now commands the reins at Turf Moor. This encounter takes place on Friday night, marking the initiation of City’s title chase.
Saturday’s early kickoff sees Arsenal, last year’s runners-up after a dominant phase in the season, hosting Nottingham Forest. Meanwhile, Newcastle United, who clinched fourth place in the previous season, will be at home against Aston Villa in the evening.
Sunday holds a compelling clash as Liverpool, fifth in the previous campaign, faces Chelsea. Manchester United, securing third place last May, must exercise patience until Monday for their season opener against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Although Manchester City fell short in the Community Shield, losing on penalties to Arsenal at Wembley last weekend, this outcome isn’t necessarily a foreboding sign. A similar situation occurred in the preceding two seasons, yet City still emerged as ultimate victors.
For Arsenal, this outcome carried significant weight. Goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale articulated, “It’s a statement that we can defeat Manchester City in a crucial match when it truly matters… that mental barrier has been shattered.”
While City remains a clear favorite, their previous clash with Burnley in an FA Cup quarter-final last March saw a resounding 6-0 victory, with prolific scorer Erling Haaland netting a hat-trick.
Curiosity also surrounds the performance of high-value acquisitions and the impact of newly appointed managers. Arsenal, under Mikel Arteta, made substantial investments, including signing England midfielder Declan Rice from West Ham, Kai Havertz from Chelsea, and defender Jurrien Timber from Ajax Amsterdam.
Former Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino embarks on his Chelsea league debut, endeavoring to alleviate fans’ memories of last season’s struggles. An immediate formidable challenge lies ahead against Liverpool.
Despite losing captain Jordan Henderson and Fabinho to Saudi Arabia, Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool remains well-armed, aiming to put the disappointments of the prior year behind them.
Sheffield United, promoted to the top flight, hosts Crystal Palace on Saturday. Meanwhile, Luton Town’s return to the Premier League since 1992 brings them to Brighton & Hove Albion. Everton faces Fulham on the same day, and West Ham United journeys to Bournemouth. Additionally, the saga of Tottenham’s Australian manager Ange Postecoglou unfolds with a match against Brentford, possibly without England captain Harry Kane, who’s been the subject of persistent interest from Bayern Munich.
Lastly, Wolves unveil a new manager as former Bournemouth coach Gary O’Neil takes the helm, mere days after Julen Lopetegui’s sudden departure.
As the Premier League kicks off, excitement brews, and new narratives emerge across the field.
Also Read: Harry Kane is set to move to Bayern Munich as Tottenham Hotspur agrees to a €100m transfer fee
