As the Premier League weekend approaches, here's a glimpse into the predicted lineups and team news for some of the key matches.
Liverpool vs. Everton: The Merseyside derby is always a highlight, and both teams will be eager to claim bragging rights. Keep an eye out for the probable starters, with potential contenders waiting in the wings.
Brighton vs. Tottenham: Brighton's injury list includes Adam Webster, Solly March and Jack Hinshelwood. Maxim de Cuyper is doubtful. Tottenham will be looking to maintain momentum after their recent performances.
Burnley vs. Nottingham Forest: Nottingham Forest signed Zinchenko on loan from Arsenal. Burnley manager, Vincent Kompany may have midfielder Josh Cullen available after international duty. "He's trained the last couple of days and he was out with us today [Thursday], so I'm hoping he comes through tomorrow", Kompany said.
Manchester United vs. Chelsea: This clash of titans is always a must-watch. Manchester United ended Chelsea's unbeaten start in their previous encounter, in a match where both teams saw red. Dalot is back in training ahead of the Brentford match.
Other Matches: Predicted lineups are also available for West Ham vs. Crystal Palace, Wolves vs. Leeds, Fulham vs. Brentford, and Manchester City vs. Arsenal.
Several Premier League teams have injury concerns. For Arsenal, Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, and Noni Madueke are ruled out, while Martin Odegaard and Piero Hincapie are doubtful. Aston Villa will be without Andres Garcia, Ross Barkley, Amadou Onana and Youri Tielemans. Victor Lindelof is doubtful. Bournemouth will be missing Enes Unal and Adam Smith, with Lewis Cook listed as doubtful. Brentford will be without Gustavo Nunes and Paris Maghoma.
The Women's Super League (WSL) is also generating headlines as teams gear up for their upcoming matches.
Leicester City vs. Tottenham: This match sees both sides looking to return to winning ways. Leicester City had a good result in the League Cup, putting five goals past Ipswich Town. Tottenham were held to a goalless draw by Aston Villa in the same competition, but won on penalties. For Tottenham, Ella Morris, Luana Buhler and Molly Bartrip are long-term absentees.
Liverpool vs. Manchester United: Liverpool has had a difficult start to the season. Manchester United is currently second in the WSL, behind Chelsea.
Other WSL News: Manchester United Women are set for a stadium name change. Chelsea's Sam Kerr celebrated her return with a goal against Aston Villa. Liverpool Women are investigating their goalkeeper for using 'discriminatory language'.
The Europa League is underway, and several teams have already made their mark.
Celtic's Draw: Celtic secured a 1-1 draw against Crvena Zvezda in Belgrade. Kelechi Iheanacho scored for Celtic, while Marko Arnautović equalized for the hosts. Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers emphasized the need for realism following the draw.
Aston Villa's Victory: Aston Villa secured a 1-0 victory against Bologna. John McGinn scored the only goal of the match. Unai Emery will be happy with the result.
Rangers' Defeat: Rangers suffered a 1-0 defeat to Genk. Jamie O'Hara and Jason Cundy criticised Rangers' performance, with O'Hara stating that the gap between Rangers and Celtic is "as big as I even when they got relegated".
These are just some of the major headlines from the Premier League, WSL, and Europa League. Football fans can look forward to an action-packed weekend of matches.
