England: English Premier League
returns this weekend after a two-week international break where players of
different clubs in the league have gone back to their countries to participate
to fulfil their international duties. The domestic competition would return
with a bang with a highly anticipated Merseyside derby match between the
current English champions Liverpool and Everton. Before the international break
commenced, Liverpool had a dreadful send off by Aston Villa. The champions lost
to Aston Villa 7-2 in a mind-blowing match which further put the doubts of
Premier League turning stale to rest. At least for now. Everton has been
enjoying a surprisingly decent stint this season under Carlo Ancelotti. The
Italian manager has brought on highly rated Colombian forward James Rodriguez
to Everton and the fans has upped their expectations for their side as the
distinguished manager leading their team and hoping that their young striker,
Dominic Calvert-Lewin would continue his heroics in front of the goal.
Chelsea would face with
Southampton who would undoubtedly provide a solid challenge for Frank Lampard’s
side who has been to a stuttering start to their season. Arsenal had done a
decent business in the recent transfer window brining Willian from Chelsea who
has been providing solid backup to Arsenal’s forwards and diving deep into the
defensive area when needed. Willian defensive skills were severely underrated
and Arsenal fans could hope that the winger could further improve under their
manager Mikel Arteta. Arsenal has also brought the central defender Gabriel
Magalhaes and he has been decent so far and could prove to be a sold defensive
stalwart for Arsenal which in recent years has suffered terribly due to their
weak defensive team. Arsenal signed on Thomas Partey from Atletico Madrid who
could easily turn out be the signing of the season for Arsenal. Partey is well
regarded by the pundits and fans alike for his defensive midfielder skills and
the fans would be hoping Partey would fulfil their expectations and send the
team to its rightful place in the top four. Arsenal would face Manchester City
which could quickly transform into a never-ending nightmare if Arsenal’s
defense halt City’s attacking players such as Kevin de Bruyne.
Manchester United had a two-week
period to reflect on their last outing against Tottenham Hotspurs. United lost
6-1 to the North Londoners at Old Trafford. A few years ago, any English team
would have to think twice to expect a win against Manchester United with such a
drastic margin. But, the Spurs did and United’s manager Ole Gunnar Solsjkaer
was left in shock after seeing his side crumble into pieces on the pitch.
United would play Newcastle United, and a win against them would at least make
the dreadful memories of losing to the Spurs fade for the time being.
