Sunday Showdown: Chelsea, Arsenal, Man Utd, and Aston Villa Battle for Crucial Premier League Victory
Following Manchester City's triumph on Saturday afternoon, Arsenal understand they need to defeat longtime adversaries Manchester United at Emirates Stadium to restore their seven-point lead at the Premier League summit.
Aston Villa are equally aware they must overcome Newcastle United to maintain their pursuit, after unexpectedly dropping points in their previous encounter against Everton.
Additionally, there's the significant matter of a London clash between Crystal Palace and Chelsea on Sunday afternoon, alongside Brentford welcoming relegation-threatened Nottingham Forest.
Crystal Palace vs. Chelsea
Crystal Palace vs. Chelsea
Indeed, it's three victories from four matches for Liam Rosenior. Such a success rate would typically ensure an extended and successful tenure as Chelsea boss, though the initial taste of difficulty doesn't seem far off.
A 2–0 victory against Brentford finally ended their winless streak in the Premier League, though the Bees certainly departed Stamford Bridge feeling disappointed. Chelsea were somewhat lucky to secure all three points, and their midweek display indicates they're likely to struggle at Selhurst Park.
Crystal Palace continue their downward spiral, yet Steve Parish resisted Oliver Glasner's apparent desire for dismissal last weekend. The Austrian will therefore occupy the home technical area for Chelsea's arrival, with the hosts seeking their first league victory since Dec. 7.
Prediction: Crystal Palace 1–1 Chelsea
Brentford vs. Nottingham Forest
Brentford vs. Nottingham Forest
The loss at the City Ground in Gameweek 1 was meant to indicate what lay ahead for Keith Andrews at Brentford. Nevertheless, Thomas Frank's former set-piece specialist has significantly surpassed expectations during his inaugural managerial role.
The Bees are positioned to exceed their finest campaign under Frank's leadership (ninth in 2022–23), as they presently occupy seventh place in the Premier League standings. Home performances have been crucial to their achievements, with their 24-point tally from 11 matches at the Gtech representing the fourth-best home record in the league.
Nottingham Forest haven't particularly struggled away from home this season, but they suffered defeat abroad in the Europa League on Thursday. Their demanding encounter in Braga could influence Sunday's match against the robust, counter-attacking hosts.
Prediction: Brentford 3–1 Nottingham Forest
Newcastle United vs. Aston Villa
Newcastle United vs. Aston Villa
The corresponding fixture was among the most dull and unremarkable Premier League encounters this season, but Sunday's meeting on Tyneside has potential to be thrilling.
Aston Villa's home loss to Everton last weekend has introduced additional tension to the Villans' situation, with Unai Emery's post-match comments revealing a manager appearing under pressure rather than one who has clearly exceeded expectations.
Villa bounced back with victory at Fenerbahçe on Thursday, while Newcastle United comfortably dispatched PSV Eindhoven the previous evening.
The Magpies are completely inconsistent on their travels, but exceptionally difficult to unsettle before the Toon Army.
Prediction: Newcastle 3–2 Aston Villa
Arsenal vs. Manchester United
Arsenal vs. Manchester United
Michael Carrick and Mikel Arteta were teammates on numerous occasions during their playing careers, and Sunday's encounter at the Emirates won't mark the first sideline they've shared since transitioning into coaching.
During his initial caretaker period with Manchester United, Carrick guided the Red Devils to a 3–2 triumph over Arteta's Arsenal. A Cristiano Ronaldo double proved decisive on that day.
Carrick lacks a legendary figure to rely upon this weekend, but Ronaldo's fellow Portuguese, Bruno Fernandes, was exceptional in last week's 2–0 derby triumph. Indeed, United were impressive collectively, and their display would've certainly concerned several Arsenal fans approaching this fixture.
Though the table-toppers stumbled at Forest last weekend, they maintain a seven-point advantage at the top. Midweek, the Gunners dominated Inter with a heavily rotated squad at San Siro.
Prediction: Arsenal 3–1 Man Utd