Premier League: Key Matches and Player Updates This Weekend
Chelsea under Enzo Maresca remain inconsistent against smaller sides despite impressive results against top teams like Arsenal, Barcelona, Liverpool, and Tottenham. They will host Everton on Saturday in a match to watch.
Mohamed Salah's future at Liverpool is uncertain; the club has remained unbeaten in four games since he was dropped from the starting lineup. A farewell ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations is anticipated, although reconciliation between Salah and the club seems unlikely.
At Burnley, Armando Broja's impact has been limited by injuries, with nine substitute appearances and no goals so far. Manager Parker advocates for starting Broja in their upcoming match against Fulham to instill bravery in the team.
Gabriel Jesus is focused on regaining his top form after an ACL injury. He made a promising cameo for Arsenal against Club Brugge and aims to earn more playing time against Wolves on Saturday.
Crystal Palace may see Nathaniel Clyne step in for Daniel Muñoz, who requires knee surgery. Palace will face Manchester City on Sunday, with City currently unbeaten at Selhurst Park.
Newcastle's Eddie Howe faces tactical challenges ahead of the Tyne-Wear derby against Sunderland, needing to decide on midfield and goalkeeper selections while addressing defensive vulnerabilities, particularly set pieces. Sunderland's Régis Le Bris’s midfield trio will be a focal point in the matchup.
Morgan Gibbs-White is expected to significantly influence Nottingham Forest's season, having tallied three goals and one league assist so far. Forest will look for his continued impact when they face Tottenham.
West Ham's Crysencio Summerville faces pressure to provide tangible contributions, having not scored or assisted recently. He will be tested against Aston Villa, where Matty Cash poses a key challenge.
Leeds United travel to Brentford after recent matches, with their back-five formation and Dango Ouattara's movement potentially critical in countering Brentford's strong home form and set-piece threat.
Manchester United have shown improvement over their last nine league games but remain defensively vulnerable, conceding 22 goals while scoring 26. They will play Bournemouth on Monday, aiming to build on their recent form.
