The 2024/25 Premier League season kicks off this weekend, with Manchester United, Manchester City, and Chelsea poised for pivotal matches that could set the tone for the season. Manchester United will host Fulham on Friday evening, while defending champions Manchester City will face a new-look Chelsea on Sunday. With new signings, managerial changes, and strategic shifts, here’s a breakdown of the key matchups and storylines to watch out for.
Manchester United vs. Fulham
Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United aims to hit the ground running as they welcome Fulham to Old Trafford. The Red Devils, who pulled off a stunning FA Cup final win against Manchester City last May, are under pressure to start strong after finishing eighth last season—their lowest Premier League finish ever. The United hierarchy, led by British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe, has shown faith in ten Hag, extending his contract to 2026 and supporting him with significant investment in the transfer market. New arrivals Leny Yoro, Joshua Zirkzee, Matthijs De Ligt, and Noussair Mazraoui, acquired for around £150 million, will be keen to make an immediate impact.
Fulham’s victory at Old Trafford in February, their first in 20 years, serves as a reminder that the Cottagers can pose a serious challenge. Any repeat of that upset could spell early trouble for ten Hag and rekindle doubts about his ability to lead United forward.
Chelsea vs. Manchester City
Sunday’s headline fixture features a clash between a new-look Chelsea and defending champions Manchester City. Enzo Maresca, Chelsea’s new manager, faces a daunting challenge against his former club, having previously been part of Pep Guardiola’s coaching staff. The Blues, with a bloated first-team squad exceeding 50 players, are still grappling with organizational chaos. Their turbulent pre-season, including a 4-2 defeat to City in the USA, highlights the work Maresca has ahead.
City, on the other hand, enjoy a sense of continuity. With minimal changes to the squad—Brazilian winger Savinho being the sole new addition and the departure of Julian Alvarez to Atletico Madrid—Guardiola’s men are well-prepared for the season. However, key players like Kyle Walker, John Stones, Phil Foden, and Rodri, who participated in the Euro 2024 final, have just returned to training and may not feature in the starting lineup.
Ipswich vs. Liverpool
Liverpool, under the new leadership of Arne Slot, face a tricky opener against Ipswich Town, who return to the top-flight after a 22-year absence. Despite not making any signings in the transfer window, Liverpool’s pre-season form has been impressive, with convincing wins over Arsenal, United, and Sevilla. A victory at Portman Road would ease some of the pressure on Slot, as he steps into the shoes of the legendary Jurgen Klopp.
Ipswich defender Axel Tuanzebe has expressed confidence in his team’s ability to continue their formidable home record. “We’re going to empty the tank and give everything we’ve got,” he told the BBC. Tuanzebe’s assertion that “It is just 11 v 11 on the pitch” reflects the underdog spirit that could make this match an exciting contest.
Other Matches to Watch
Saturday’s fixtures include Arsenal hosting Wolves, Everton facing Brighton, Newcastle taking on Southampton, and Nottingham Forest welcoming Bournemouth. West Ham versus Aston Villa is set for a late afternoon kickoff. On Sunday, Brentford will meet Crystal Palace, providing an intriguing London derby.
The opening weekend concludes with a Monday night fixture between Leicester City and Tottenham Hotspur. With several teams eager to make a statement, the start of the 2024/25 Premier League season promises excitement, drama, and plenty of storylines to follow. Football fans across the globe will be eagerly watching as the action unfolds.
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