Gameweek 3 Premier League: Bold Predictions That Could Shake Up the Table

In case there was any doubt that the Premier League had truly returned, St. James' Park on Monday evening provided all the confirmation needed.

The Alexander Isak Derby exceeded all expectations on Tyneside, with Liverpool's thrilling 3–2 victory possessing all the hallmarks of a timeless classic despite occurring so early in the season.

We're only two weeks into the 2025–26 season and the first international break looms ahead. Thankfully, fixture planners have crafted another exciting, story-rich weekend of matches, and with no Friday or Monday evening games scheduled, all the drama will unfold within 48 hours.

Here are Sports Illustrated's Premier League forecasts for Gameweek 3.

Saturday, August 23—A Crucial Day for Ruben Amorim

The weekend kicks off with a West London Derby at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea versus Fulham may not rank among the Premier League's most intense rivalries, but the geographical closeness of both clubs typically adds spice when they clash.

Chelsea have traditionally held the upper hand, but the Cottagers managed a rare victory at the Bridge during the holiday fixtures last season. Marco Silva's squad have collected two draws to begin the campaign, while the Blues dismantled a woeful West Ham United side in Gameweek 2.

The Saturday afternoon spotlight falls on what appears to be a straightforward home fixture for Manchester United against Burnley. Nevertheless, their shocking penalty shootout loss to League Two Grimsby Town in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday has elevated this match's importance for Ruben Amorim, who desperately requires three points.

Burnley, though, have appeared quite impressive through two weeks, securing their maiden victory of the campaign in their previous outing.

Sunderland suffered a harsh reality check at Turf Moor, but return to home soil this weekend as they host Brentford at the Stadium of Light. Both sides have claimed one victory each, with the Bees opening their account by defeating Wolverhampton Wanderers.

On that note, Vitor Pereira's squad enters their encounter with Everton following a comeback triumph over West Ham in midweek cup action. They're seeking their inaugural league victory of the 2025–26 campaign against the Jack Grealish-energized Toffees.

Tottenham Hotspur emerged as Gameweek 2's most impressive performers, securing another victory at the Etihad, with Thomas Frank making an instant impression on this Spurs team. Bournemouth awaits next for Tottenham, who can maintain their perfect record heading into the break.

Saturday's fixtures conclude at Elland Road, where Leeds United face Newcastle United. Leeds were thoroughly outplayed at Arsenal last weekend, while Newcastle drew positives from their loss to the champions. Eddie Howe may be missing several crucial players in Yorkshire, though.

Sunday, August 24—Liverpool, Arsenal Clash in Anfield Spectacular

Sunday offers a four-match lineup to savor, featuring an unusual 7 p.m. kickoff that sees a struggling Aston Villa side host Crystal Palace at Villa Park.

Palace booked their Conference League spot on Thursday and have managed two draws to open their Premier League campaign. Villa, conversely, are still searching for their first victory.

Earlier, Manchester City travel to Brighton & Hove Albion in what promises to be an entertaining battle on the south coast. Both teams aim to recover from Gameweek 2 setbacks. At the same time, Nottingham Forest, who overcame off-pitch drama to draw at Palace last week, welcome a West Ham side desperately needing momentum before potentially turning to José Mourinho.

These two matches will serve as appetizers for the weekend's marquee showdown at 4.30 p.m., featuring what many consider the Premier League's top two sides battling on Merseyside. Liverpool welcome title contenders Arsenal in a match that won't determine the league leader but could significantly influence the 2025–26 championship race.

The Gunners must attack for victory at Anfield, despite their poor historical record at Liverpool's fortress.