The Premier League returns this weekend with Game Week 17, promising a round of exciting fixtures across England as clubs battle for vital points before the festive period.
One of the standout clashes will see Aston Villa host Manchester United at Villa Park on Sunday evening. Elsewhere, Newcastle United welcome Chelsea to St James’ Park in Saturday’s early kick-off, while Liverpool travel to Tottenham Hotspur later that day. Manchester City will also be in action at the Etihad Stadium against West Ham United.
Here are four fixtures where upsets could be on the cards this weekend:
Everton vs Arsenal
Everton will face league leaders Arsenal on Saturday night at Hill Dickinson Stadium. David Moyes’ side sit ninth on the table after a 2–0 defeat to Chelsea in their last outing, while Arsenal edged Wolves 2–1. Despite the gap in quality and position, the Toffees will be hoping home advantage can help them frustrate the Gunners and possibly snatch a positive result.
Tottenham Hotspur vs Liverpool
Tottenham welcome Liverpool to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday evening. Spurs are currently 11th in the standings and come into the match after a heavy 3–0 loss to Nottingham Forest. Liverpool, seventh on the table, are buoyed by a 2–0 win over Brighton. Tottenham will be eager to bounce back in front of their supporters and could pose problems for Arne Slot’s side.
Manchester City vs West Ham United
Manchester City host West Ham at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday evening. Pep Guardiola’s men are second on the table and head into the game after a convincing 3–0 victory over Crystal Palace. West Ham, who sit 18th, suffered a narrow 3–2 defeat to Aston Villa in their last match. While City are clear favourites, the Hammers will be hoping to avoid consecutive losses and could spring a surprise if they seize their chances.
Aston Villa vs Manchester United
The weekend’s headline fixture takes place on Sunday evening as third-placed Aston Villa face Manchester United at Villa Park. Unai Emery’s side are in strong form after beating West Ham, while United played out a draw with Bournemouth and currently occupy sixth place. Despite Villa’s impressive home record, the Red Devils will fancy their chances of causing an upset and leaving Birmingham with a valuable result.
