Back

Premier League Preview: Villa host Man Utd, Arsenal travel to face London rivals West Ham, City and Liverpool both at home

MAVERICK GAMES

Our soccer expert shares betting tips and previews some of the key games in matchday 24 including Manchester United against Aston Villa and West Ham facing London rivals West Ham.

 

 

Manchester City vs Everton (Saturday 12:30 UTC)

The Etihad Stadium is set for a great encounter as Manchester City faces Everton in a pivotal match that could significantly influence the Premier League title race. With City trailing just behind Liverpool, every point becomes crucial in the race for the championship. Pep Guardiola's side comes into this clash with an impressive record of 15 wins, four draws, and four losses, showcasing their dominance in the league. In their recent outing against Brentford, City displayed resilience, coming from behind to secure a 3-1 victory, with Phil Foden's hattrick stealing the spotlight. 

The return of Kevin De Bruyne has undoubtedly bolstered City's midfield, adding a layer of creativity that makes them a formidable force. Everton, on the other hand, is navigating a challenging season under the management of Sean Dyche, dealing with a ten-point deduction for breaching UEFA financial rules. The match against City presents an opportunity for redemption, a chance to defy the odds and make a statement in a season filled with adversity. 

The Toffees come into this game with a record of eight wins, five draws, and ten losses. In their recent fixture against Tottenham, Everton fought hard to secure a 2-2 draw, with goals from Jack Harrison and an added-time equalizer from defender Jarrad Branthwaite. However, key players like Abdoulaye Doucoure and Andre Gomes are sidelined with injuries, adding to the challenges Dyche faces. Despite the odds, Everton has shown glimpses of quality, and facing a top-tier team like Manchester City provides an opportunity for them to prove their spirit.

 The head-to-head history between these two teams adds an extra layer of intrigue. While City has often been dominant in recent years, Everton remains one of those teams capable of causing upsets. As both teams step onto the Etihad turf, the clash promises not only a fierce battle for three points but also a narrative of determination and resilience. For City, it's about maintaining the pursuit of the title, while for Everton, it's a chance to rise above relegation.

Manchester City are favoured at 1.187 and Everton to win are priced at 13.080, the over is at 3.25, priced at 1.892.

 

Liverpool vs Burnley (Saturday 15:00 UTC)

Anfield, the historic fortress of Liverpool, sets the stage for another compelling chapter as the Reds take on Burnley in a match that encapsulates the unpredictable nature of the Premier League. Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool, with a record of 15 wins, four draws, and three losses, finds itself in a tight title race with Manchester City. The recent setback against Arsenal, where they succumbed to a 3-1 defeat, has added an element of uncertainty to Liverpool's season. 

The absence of key players, including Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai, coupled with the suspension of Ibrahima Konate, poses challenges for Klopp's squad. Burnley, led by Vicent Kompany, faces an uphill battle to avoid relegation. With only three wins, four draws, and 16 losses, the Clarets are in dire need of points to climb out of the danger zone. The clash at Anfield promises high stakes and a display of contrasting ambitions, with Liverpool fighting for the title and Burnley battling to escape the relegation zone.

Liverpool comes into this match with a point to prove after the disappointing loss to Arsenal. Despite the setback, the attacking prowess of the Reds cannot be underestimated. However, the absence of Salah, who has been a goal-scoring machine, raises concerns about Liverpool's ability to convert chances into goals. Burnley, known for their resilient defending under Kompany, will aim to frustrate Liverpool and capitalize on set-piece opportunities. Players like Lyle Foster and Zeki Amdouni will be crucial in Burnley's strategy to exploit any defensive vulnerabilities Liverpool might display.

The tactical battle between Klopp and Kompany adds an intriguing element to this fixture. While Liverpool will look to dominate possession and play an expansive style, Burnley will focus on disciplined defending and exploiting counter-attack opportunities. Anfield's atmosphere is known to be a 12th man for Liverpool, but Burnley has a history of being a tough nut to crack. As the referee's whistle signals the start, fans can expect a gripping encounter filled with moments of brilliance and resilience on both ends of the pitch.

For this game, Liverpool are 1.153 to win, and Burnley to win is priced at 15.200.

 

 

West Ham vs Arsenal (Sunday  14:00 UTC)

The London Stadium becomes the battleground for a clash between two ambitious London clubs – West Ham and Arsenal. Mikel Arteta's Arsenal, with a record of 15 wins, four draws, and four losses, is rejuvenated and eyeing the Premier League title after a prolonged drought. The recent 3-1 victory over Liverpool showcased their ability to compete at the highest level, with key players like Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka delivering standout performances.

However, injuries to Jurrien Timber, Oleksandr Zinchenko, and Thomas Partey, along with the absence of Takehiro Tomiyasu due to his participation in the Asian Cup, present challenges for the Gunners. West Ham, under the guidance of David Moyes, have aspirations of European football. With ten wins, six draws, and seven losses, the Hammers aim to secure a spot in continental competition. Injuries to key players, including Lucas Paqueta, Michael Antonio, and Alphonse Areola, add complexity to Moyes's tactical considerations. The clash at the London Stadium is not just a battle for points but a test of each team's ability to navigate the rigours of a demanding Premier League campaign.

 Arsenal's resurgence under Arteta has been a storyline of the season, and their victory against Liverpool further emphasized their title credentials. The tactical flexibility displayed by Arteta, shifting between different formations and utilising the squad's depth, has been a key factor in their success. However, facing West Ham, a team with its own European aspirations, presents a different challenge. The absence of defensive stalwarts like Timber and Zinchenko could expose Arsenal's backline, and Moyes will likely instruct his team to exploit any defensive vulnerabilities.

West Ham, despite a recent setback against Manchester United, remains a force to be reckoned with. Moyes has instilled a sense of belief in his squad, and players like Jarrod Bowen and James Ward-Prowse have been influential in their campaign. The London Stadium, known for its passionate atmosphere, could play a significant role in boosting West Ham's performance. As the two London rivals lock horns, fans can expect a tactical battle, end-to-end action, and a showcase of individual brilliance that defines the essence of Premier League football.

Arsenal are priced at 1.546 to win and the home side to win is 5.890.

 

Aston Villa vs Manchester United (Sunday  16:30 UTC)

Villa Park hosts a blockbuster encounter as Aston Villa squares off against Manchester United, with both teams harbouring aspirations of Champions League football next season. Unai Emery's impact at Villa is evident, with a record of 14 wins, four draws, and five losses placing them in a promising fourth position. The recent 5-0 victory over Sheffield United showcased Villa's attacking prowess, with goals flowing from multiple sources. However, a midweek FA Cup loss to Chelsea highlighted the need for consistency as they aim to secure a top-four finish. Injuries to key players, including Lucas Digne, Tyron Mings, and Emiliano Buendia, raise concerns for Villa.

Manchester United, led by Erik ten Hag, faces a crucial juncture in their quest for a Champions League spot. With 12 wins, two draws, and nine losses, United is coming off an impressive 3-0 victory over West Ham, featuring standout performances from young talents like Rasmus Højlund and Alejandro Garnacho. However, the absence of key players, including Lisandro Martinez, Mason Mount, and Antony Martial due to injuries, poses challenges for Erik ten Hag’s tactical planning. The clash at Villa Park is more than a battle for points; it's a defining moment in the season-long pursuit of Champions League dreams for both teams.

Aston Villa, under the guidance of Emery, has been a revelation this season, and their attacking brand of football has earned them plaudits. The combination of Ollie Watkins, John McGinn, and Leon Bailey has proven lethal, and Villa's ability to score goals from various positions makes them a formidable opponent. However, the defensive frailties exposed in the FA Cup defeat will be a concern, especially against a team of Manchester United's calibre. The absence of Digne and Mings in defence could provide opportunities for United's attacking players.

Manchester United, boosted by their recent league victory over West Ham, enters this game with confidence. The emergence of young talents like Højlund and Garnacho has added a refreshing dynamic to United's squad. Erik ten Hag’s tactics will be crucial in overcoming the absence of key players. The midfield battle, where players like McGinn and Mainoo are likely to play pivotal roles, will determine the flow of the game. As both teams eye the coveted top-four spots, this clash at Villa Park is not just a contest of skill but a high-stakes chess match with Champions League qualification hanging in the balance. The drama, intensity, and significance of this fixture are emblematic of the competitive nature of the Premier League.

For this game, the home side are priced at 2.160 to win, and Manchester United’s to win is 3.140, the under is at 3 and its priced at 1.877.

 

Full list of Premier League fixtures - Matchday 24

Saturday 10th February

Manchester City vs Everton (12:30)

Fulham vs Bournemouth (15:00)

Liverpool vs Burnley (15:00)

Luton Town vs Sheffield United (15:00)

Tottenham Hotspur vs Brighton (15:00)

Wolves vs Brentford (15:00)

Nottingham Forest vs Newcastle United (17:30)

 

Sunday 11th February

West Ham United vs Arsenal (14:00)

Manchester United vs Aston Villa (16:30)

 

Monday 12th February

Chelsea vs Crystal Palace (20:00)

 

**Odds are subject to change. Odds accurate as of 11:00 UTC Friday 9th February**

To view more expert sports content and previews, view all our latest articles here.

Share
twittergooglefacebook