Premier League Predictions: Matchday 8

Photo from Premier League.

Raj Ramanathan

Thank you for tuning in to yet another year of the Premier League updates. Today, we will explore week eight of the Premier League. Soccer fans worldwide are gearing up for a weekend of thrilling action. Teams have rejuvenated and transformed themselves into powerhouses or fallen to the depths. We'll analyze the key fixtures and the potential impact they could have on the league standings. With surprises hidden beyond what the eyes see, we will watch in suspense.

The Games of the Week

Arsenal (5-2-0) v Man City (6-0-1)

Man City: Manchester City comes off of yet another successful year in both the Champions League and Premier League, and they look to capitalize on this success. Millions of fans anticipate this match-up once again; these will be the championship contenders. With that said, Pep Guardiola has put together another star-studded lineup with new players such as Gvardiol, Doku, and Kovacic. The team, however, has come off of a loss last week to the Wolves in a tight 2-1 game. They look to improve this week with key aspects of controlling the game and their defensive and offensive production. Mistakes from Foden and Ake led to key opposition goals. Gvardiol, being the highlight star defensive signing, needs time to adjust and as soon as he is ready he will be a part of the starting lineup. Offensive production also needs to be more creative with less predictable attacks. This week proved that Haaland cannot do it all by himself and that he needs help from his supporting cast. On the flip side, Arsenal has played well this year but not extraordinary like last year. Although they were leading most of the year, they failed to wrap up the season last year and lost out to Man City by four points in the championship. This year, they have implemented new players such as Rice, Jorgino, and Havertz. These players, alongside Arteta’s scheme, should be interesting to watch. Coming from a great win last week, they will look to continue their success. This week, they need to be able to play a defensive game while capitalizing on their few offensive chances. This game will be interesting to watch, but I think Man City should pull away with it in the second half.

Liverpool (5-1-1) v Everton (5-0-2)

Liverpool: Underperforming is not a new word for Liverpool as they have continued to disappoint this season. Expectations were set high when players like Gakpo, Nunez, and Mac Allister entered the picture, but no significant impact was shown last year. This year has been a difference with all three players stepping up to score and making big plays for the club. The future is bright; all they need is a solidified young midfield. The defensive side has played well, but the midfield continuously puts them under pressure. The midfield needs to step up for a win this week. The opposing side, Brighton, is also dangerous. However, they lack a superstar factor, and signing players like Ansu Fati have limited their success. Coming from a humiliating loss last week, Brighton hopes to capitalize. The defense let six goals in last week; either a new defensive scheme or formation is necessary for the success of Brighton. Both teams have limited opportunities and limited players, but time and time again, Liverpool has come out on top. 

Newcastle (4-0-3) v West Ham (4-1-2)

Newcastle's recent acquisition, Sandro Tonali, has been making waves in defense. The Italian international has seamlessly integrated into the Magpies' backline, demonstrating composure, vision, and ball-playing ability. His presence has helped Newcastle's defensive solidity, making them a tougher side to break down. With help from stars like Isak and Gumereas bolstering the attack, they should play well this week. On the other side of the pitch, West Ham's new midfield signing, Mohammed Kudus, has been a revelation for the Hammers. The sensation has added creativity and flair to the midfield, offering a dynamic link between defense and attack. His quick dribbling, vision, and ability to pick out key passes have ignited West Ham's attacking play, earning plaudits from fans and pundits alike. With Tonali fortifying Newcastle's defense and Kudus orchestrating West Ham's midfield, this match promises to be a fascinating battle of talent and strategy. I think this game will go to Newcastle and their well-constructed team with new signings.