Premier League talking points ahead of the weekend | OneFootball

Ahead of this weekend’s Premier League fixtures, we’ve picked out some key talking points.

What’s realistic for Manchester United this season?

It’s perhaps typical of Manchester United in recent seasons that one result can change a narrative. Heading into last week’s win over Chelsea, there were some who suggested Ruben Amorim could be ousted with a poor result. Instead, United claimed an important three points at Old Trafford, and the picture is suddenly rosier.

The Red Devils might be 11th in the table, but are just three points from second, having had, on paper, the toughest start of any side. United have already faced Arsenal (H), Manchester City (A), and Chelsea (H), alongside an often tricky trip to take on Fulham at Craven Cottage.

With Brentford and Sunderland to come next, there’s a chance to build some momentum. Predicting how Manchester United will fare in any fixture is a fool’s game right now, but there’s a platform to head into October’s international break in a rare, optimistic mood.

Unbeaten teams meet at Selhurst Park

Just two teams remain unbeaten in the Premier League this season and meet this weekend. Crystal Palace welcome Liverpool to Selhurst Park, aiming to end the champions’ perfect start to their title defence.

Liverpool have a perfect record after five games and have already opened up a five-point advantage at the top. Record signing Alexander Isak is set to make his first Premier League start for the Reds, following Hugo Ekitike’s red card in midweek.

However, Palace will be a tough nut to crack. The Eagles have equalised a club record after going 17 games unbeaten in all competitions and upset Liverpool to win the Community Shield in August.

Postecoglou cannot ignore Forest forward

Igor Jesus has made an immediate impact at Nottingham Forest. The summer signing has been limited to just 46 minutes of Premier League football across four substitute appearances this season, but has starred in cup competition.

Jesus has scored braces on each of his first two starts for Forest, averaging a goal every 27.5 minutes, after netting twice in the Europa League draw at Real Betis.

The quick turnaround in games means Jesus might find himself back on the bench this weekend, but Chris Wood’s status as an automatic starter is under real threat. Wood is four games without a goal in the Premier League.

Arsenal aim to improve poor St James’ Park record

Mikel Arteta was keen to celebrate his side’s performance last weekend, despite dropping points to Manchester City at the Emirates. However, Arteta’s praise for his team will not be received well if Arsenal fall further behind Liverpool this weekend.

Arsenal travel to Newcastle United on Sunday, an opponent who have proven problematic of late. The Gunners have won just one of the last five meetings at St James’ Park in all competitions, losing the other four without scoring a goal.

Another defeat this weekend, coupled with a Liverpool win, would see Arsenal eight points behind the champions by September’s end. For all the club’s progress under Arteta, it would increase the scrutiny on the manager.

Could Moyes bring an end to Potter’s time at West Ham?

West Ham fans wanted David Moyes out at the end of his time in East London, despite a period that saw regular European football and a first major trophy in 43 years. Since his exit, however, West Ham have declined at an alarming rate.

Julen Lopetegui was a poor choice of replacement, while the Spaniard’s successor, Graham Potter, has endured similar troubles. Potter’s position is precarious after a start to the season that has seen West Ham lose four of their five games and concede a league-leading 13 goals.

Another defeat this weekend could inflict irreparable damage, and it would be ironic if it were Moyes who brought an end to his tenure.

Read – 📈 Power Rankings: New leader as PSG tumble

See more – The Premier League teams with the most bookings as Chelsea fined

Follow The Football Faithful on Social Media:

Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok