Premier League predictions: Gameweek 3

It’s been a busy few days in football with European draws and Friday’s round-the-clock transfer deadline day coverage keeping fans glued to their phones, but the on-field action takes centre stage just a day later when Gameweek 3 of the 2024/24 Premier League season kicks off.

Clubs can no longer make additions to their squads after summer window dramatically slammed shut, with the likes of Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal all hoping they’ve done enough to achieve their objectives this term.

It’s the clash between United and Liverpool that will attract the most eyes on Sunday, but there’s some fascinating fixtures taking place elsewhere throughout the Premier League.

Here are 90min’s predictions for Gameweek 3.

Saturday 31 August

Getting things underway on Saturday lunchtime are Arsenal, who have been buoyed by their statement victory at Aston Villa last week. The Gunners have two wins out of two games and will put their 100% record on the line against Brighton & Hove Albion, who have also picked up six points so far, most recently toppling Manchester United in dramatic fashion.

Brentford could only make life a little bit difficult for their hosts at Anfield last week but will enjoy a more open game when Southampton visit the Gtech Community Stadium. The Saints are one of five teams yet to register a point and one of only two sides yet to score a goal.

That other side is Everton, who left London with their tails between their legs last weekend after being thumped by Tottenham Hotspur. Things need to change quickly for Sean Dyche’s Toffees, who’ll hope an upturn in form arrives when Bournemouth roll up to Goodison Park. The Cherries were somewhat unfortunately denied a victory against Newcastle last time out.

It’s been a chastening start to life in the top flight for Ipswich Town, who have had to take on national giants Manchester City and Liverpool upon their promotion from the Championship. They’ve shipped six goals so far and may let in a few more in their battle with Fulham, who managed their first win in Gameweek 2.

Leicester City were the ones who suffered defeat at Craven Cottage and the Foxes are still feeling their way back into the perils of Premier League football. Their credentials will be tested once more by an Aston Villa side who will want to finish their chances a little better this week after discovering their upcoming Champions League opponents.

Nottingham Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo took charge of 199 games as Wolves manager and will undoubtedly get a good reception from the visiting faithful at the City Ground. It’s bound to be a stodgy affair and one that could end with a point apiece.

Saturday’s evening fixture sees reigning champions Manchester City visit West Ham United. Pep Guardiola’s side have won the last four meetings between the two teams and haven’t lost to the Hammers in the league since 2015.

Sunday 1 September

Sunday’s action kicks off with two matches at 13:30 (BST). One of which is nightmare trip to St James’ Park for Tottenham Hotspur, who have lost their last two away fixtures with Newcastle United by a 10-1 aggregate scoreline.

Chelsea stole the show last weekend as Noni Madueke and Cole Palmer powered the Blues to a huge win at Wolves but Enzo Maresca’s side must show consistency, starting against Crystal Palace. The Eagles have resisted interested in Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi but now need to get points on the board after two defeats.

Manchester United and Liverpool put on a couple of incredible spectacles at Old Trafford last season, with one ending in triumph for the Red Devils in the FA Cup. However, the Merseysiders now have their own Dutchman in Arne Slot and have won their first two matches under him with little trouble.

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