Key storylines as the second weekend of the Premier League season approaches
Liverpool will face an unfriendly reception in Newcastle on Monday as they pursue striker Alexander Isak, who is looking to leave the Magpies. In a significant clash, Manchester City will meet Tottenham, providing an early test of their season goals.
On the other side of Merseyside, Everton enters a new chapter when they host Brighton for their inaugural competitive match at the new 53,000-seat stadium.
Here are the critical topics to watch as the Premier League’s second weekend arrives:
Isak’s future looms over Newcastle and Liverpool
Isak is expected to miss the game against Liverpool, his potential future with the club becoming increasingly uncertain as the transfer window nears its end.
Newcastle has declared that the 25-year-old will not be sold unless they find a suitable replacement and unless Liverpool meets their asking price of approximately £150 million ($202 million).
Liverpool’s previous offer of £110 million was turned down, and although they have already spent £300 million on new players, their transfer dealings are not yet finished.
On Tuesday, Isak expressed his dissatisfaction, stating that his relationship with Newcastle “can’t continue” due to a breakdown of trust with the club.
The impressive early performances of Hugo Ekitike have somewhat reduced the urgency for Liverpool to meet Newcastle’s demands.
Ekitike, who opted for Liverpool over Newcastle, made an impact in his Premier League debut, contributing a goal and an assist during Liverpool’s 4-2 victory over Bournemouth.
Liverpool’s new team under manager Arne Slot has shown vulnerabilities, particularly in defending against counter-attacks, but the return of midfielder Ryan Gravenberch from suspension could bolster their lineup at St James’ Park.
Newcastle struggled offensively in their opening match, managing only a goalless draw against a depleted Aston Villa side.
Eddie Howe faced further challenges in the transfer market, as efforts to land Yoane Wissa from Brentford have come to a standstill.
Tottenham offers a reminder of challenges for Manchester City
City kicked off their season with a decisive 4-0 victory over Wolves, signaling their intent after a disappointing previous season.
However, the upcoming match against Spurs recalls City’s struggles last year when Tottenham achieved a 4-0 victory at the Etihad during a rough stretch for Pep Guardiola’s side, who won only once in 13 outings.
Guardiola noted that new players Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Cherki, and Rayan Ait-Nouri have injected “fresh energy” into the team following their promising performances at Molineux.
Yet, facing Spurs, who have lost just once in their last four league visits to the Etihad and consistently scored at least twice, presents a significant challenge for City.
With new manager Thomas Frank at the helm, Spurs displayed their potential with a strong 3-0 win against Burnley to start their Premier League campaign.
Everton embarks on a new chapter
Everton’s season started with a setback, losing 1-0 to Leeds.
However, the anticipation surrounding their new stadium in Liverpool’s docklands presents hope for revitalization.
After years of struggle for one of England’s historically top teams, Everton is counting on the Hill Dickinson Stadium to help turn around their fortunes.
The relocation from Goodison Park, a venue that has housed the Toffees since 1892, carries inherent risks.
The passionate atmosphere at Goodison Park has played a crucial role in supporting the team during challenging times in recent seasons.
Based on Monday’s match, it is evident that Everton will need their new home to provide a similar fortress to avoid facing another relegation battle.
Fixtures (all times GMT)
Friday
West Ham v Chelsea (1900)
Saturday
Manchester City v Tottenham (1130), Bournemouth v Wolves, Brentford v Aston Villa, Burnley v Sunderland (all 1400), Arsenal v Leeds (1630)
Sunday
Everton v Brighton, Crystal Palace v Nottingham Forest (both 1300), Fulham v Manchester United (1530)
Monday
Newcastle v Liverpool (1900)
