The biggest and most watched football league in the world, the Premier League, is back in full swing. Friday night saw Liverpool host Bournemouth under the lights at Anfield. But with the curtain now raised, Saturday’s fixtures set the tempo, and Sunday promises fireworks — none more so than the clash at Old Trafford between Manchester United and Arsenal.
For Arsenal, the objective is clear: end the second-place rut. Three consecutive runners-up finishes have sharpened Mikel Arteta’s resolve, and the Gunners have recruited with intent. Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard bring midfield control, while Viktor Gyokeres arrives to finally solve the striker dilemma. With Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli flanking the Swede, Arsenal’s attack looks ready to fire.
United, meanwhile, remain the league’s great unknown. After last season’s 15th-place collapse, Ruben Amorim has rebuilt aggressively. The new front three — Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo — offers pace and unpredictability, but cohesion remains a question. Amorim’s Sporting-style 3-4-3 system showed promise in pre-season, yet Sunday will be the first true test.
Also on Sunday, Chelsea host Crystal Palace, while Nottingham Forest welcome Brentford in a clash of mid-table hopefuls.
Saturday’s slate features Manchester City away to Wolves, with Pep Guardiola’s side eager to reclaim their crown. Rodri’s fitness remains uncertain, but City’s depth — bolstered by Rayan Cherki and Tijjani Reijnders — should see them through. Tottenham host Burnley in Thomas Frank’s Premier League debut, while Aston Villa face Newcastle in a battle of European hopefuls. Sunderland, back in the top flight, host West Ham in a nostalgic return to Premier League action.
But all eyes will be on Old Trafford come Sunday 9:30 PM Bangladesh standard time. For Arsenal, it’s a chance to assert their title credentials. For United, it’s about proving the rebuild is more than just rhetoric. One side seeks redemption, the other validation — and both know that in this highly competitive league, early momentum is everything.
