The weekend is set for a thrilling clash in both the English and Scottish Premier Leagues, with Liverpool hosting Arsenal and Celtic facing Rangers in the highly anticipated "Old Firm" derby. Both matches promise high stakes and intense competition.

Liverpool vs. Arsenal

Anfield is the battleground for an early Premier League title showdown as Liverpool, the reigning champions, take on Arsenal, last season's runners-up. The match is scheduled for a 4:30 PM BST kick-off. Both teams have had strong starts to the season, adding extra anticipation to this encounter. Liverpool has shown attacking prowess, scoring seven goals in their first two games, but their defense has been shaky, conceding four goals. Arsenal, on the other hand, has maintained clean sheets in their opening matches while also displaying a potent attack.

Liverpool's manager, Arne Slot, has confirmed that Alexis Mac Allister is back in contention after recovering from an injury. Conor Bradley is also expected to return to the starting lineup. However, Liverpool will be without Jeremie Frimpong due to a hamstring injury. Key players like Virgil van Dijk are fit to play, allaying fears after a heavy tackle in the previous game. Florian Wirtz will be looking to make a significant impact and score his first goal for the Reds.

Arsenal's squad faces some injury concerns. Bukayo Saka is sidelined for several weeks with a hamstring injury. Kai Havertz is also out after undergoing knee surgery. Martin Ødegaard is doubtful due to an injury sustained against Leeds. However, new signing Eberechi Eze could make his debut, adding excitement to Arsenal's lineup. Jurriën Timber is expected to start.

Historically, matches between Liverpool and Arsenal have been thrilling. Four of the last six competitive meetings have ended in draws. Arsenal has not won at Anfield in the Premier League since 2012. Last season's match at Anfield ended in a 2-2 draw.

Celtic vs. Rangers

The first "Old Firm" derby of the season takes place at Ibrox Stadium in Glasgow at 12 PM BST. Both teams are under pressure after failing to qualify for the Champions League, adding intensity to this early showdown. Rangers were heavily defeated by Club Brugge, while Celtic was eliminated on penalties by Kairat Almaty.

Rangers' new head coach, Russell Martin, is seeking his first league win. A defeat in this match could increase the pressure on him. Rangers may have new striker Bojan Miovski in the starting lineup. James Tavernier is also expected to return to the starting side. Celtic, managed by Brendan Rodgers, has won all three of their league games without conceding a goal. A win would put them nine points ahead of Rangers. Celtic may hand a debut to new winger Michel-Ange Balikwisha. Marcelo Saracchi could also make his debut.

The "Old Firm" derby is known for its intense atmosphere. Rangers have been unbeaten in their last three meetings with Celtic. However, Celtic is aiming to bounce back from their Champions League exit and put pressure on Rangers.