This weekend’s clash between Aston Villa and Arsenal has all the ingredients of a classic Premier League encounter. Aston Villa, fresh off an impressive 2-1 victory at West Ham, will be looking to replicate their successes from last season, where they did the double over Arsenal.
However, with their eyes firmly set on the Premier League title, the Gunners will undoubtedly be hungry for revenge.
Aston Villa’s Tactical Approach
Expect Unai Emery’s Villa to adopt a counter-attacking style, similar to their game plan last season.
Despite having less possession, they managed to outmaneuver Arsenal twice, securing crucial wins that derailed Arsenal’s title charge. Villa’s defense will be tested, especially with Matty Cash as a doubt and the long-term absences of Boubacar Kamara and Tyrone Mings.
However, with Ollie Watkins leading the line and Pau Torres posing a set-piece threat, Villa will look to exploit any gaps in Arsenal’s backline.
Arsenal’s Response
Mikel Arteta’s side will enter Villa Park with a point to prove.
Despite a strong start to the season, the Gunners will be wary of Villa’s threat. With key players like Declan Rice and Fabio Vieira nearing full fitness, and the depth provided by summer signing Riccardo Calafiori, Arsenal has the quality to edge out a result.
Expect Bukayo Saka to be pivotal, both as a goal threat and the creative spark for Arsenal.
Betting Tips
- Under 3.5 Goals: Given the history between these sides and their current form, this game is likely to be a tight affair. Arsenal’s last four matches have seen fewer than four goals, and Villa will aim to keep it that way.
- Arsenal to score: There’s no doubt the visitors will strike in a goal
- Lucas Digne to be Carded: Digne will be up against the pace and trickery of Saka, which increases his chances of picking up a yellow card.
Brighton vs Manchester United
Brighton’s 2024-25 campaign start has been nothing short of spectacular. A 3-0 victory over Everton showcased their attacking prowess and solidified their status as one of the teams to watch this season.
Under the guidance of 31-year-old manager Fabian Hurzeler, Brighton will be eager to continue their momentum against a Manchester United side that’s still finding its feet.
Brighton’s Bright Start
Brighton’s dynamic play, led by Kaoru Mitoma and Joao Pedro, has been a breath of fresh air. Mitoma, who returned to fitness recently, will be a key figure, along with Pedro, who has proven to be a consistent goal threat.
The Seagulls’ ability to control possession and create chances will be key against a United defense that has shown vulnerability, especially with key players like Luke Shaw and Victor Lindelof out injured.
Manchester United’s Struggles
Despite a gritty win over Fulham in their season opener, Manchester United’s performances have been far from convincing. Erik Ten Hag’s side, still adjusting to new signings and missing key players, could be in for a tough test at the Amex Stadium.
Bruno Fernandes remains their talisman, but with injuries and tactical adjustments, United may struggle to keep up with Brighton’s intensity.
Betting Tips
- Over 1.5 Goals
- Alejandro Garnacho Over 1.5 Shots: Garnacho has been one of United’s bright spots, and with his ability to create chances, backing him to take at least two shots is a solid bet.
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Tottenham Hotspur vs Everton
This weekend, Tottenham Hotspur and Everton go head-to-head in what promises to be an intriguing Premier League encounter.
Both teams will be eager to bounce back from disappointing starts to the season, with Spurs having been held to a frustrating draw, and Everton suffering a heavy defeat at home. Here’s how this match could unfold and where the smart money might lie.
Tottenham’s Determination to Improve
Spurs have had the upper hand in recent meetings with Everton, remaining unbeaten in their last seven encounters and winning the last three home games against the Toffees by a commanding 9-1 aggregate scoreline.
With their attacking potential and Everton’s shaky defense, Tottenham will be looking to put their first three points on the board in style.
Everton’s Away Day Woes
Everton’s struggles on the road have been well-documented.
They ended last season without a win in their final 11 away Premier League games, a trend that continued in their loss to Spurs in December. Although Sean Dyche’s men have shown some ability to score on their travels, finding the net in four of their last five away games, defensive frailties have cost them dearly.
Facing a Tottenham side determined to improve upon their lackluster start, Everton will need to tighten up at the back to avoid another heavy defeat. Yet, history suggests that while they might score, keeping Spurs at bay will be a tall order.
Betting Tips
- Tottenham to Win & Both Teams to Score: Spurs have been dominant in this fixture, especially at home, and given Everton’s defensive issues, a home win with both teams scoring seems a likely outcome.
- Over 2.5 Goals
- Dominic Solanke to Score Anytime: Spurs’ new signing, Dominic Solanke, may have drawn a blank on his debut, but he was lively and will be eager to get off the mark at his new home.
Wolverhampton vs Chelsea
Wolves host Chelsea this weekend in what could be a tricky fixture for the visitors. While Chelsea have splashed the cash this summer, their early-season form has left much to be desired.
Wolves, on the other hand, have a recent history of success against the Blues and will be looking to extend their winning streak. Here’s how this matchup might play out and where the best bets lie.
Chelsea’s Struggles Continue
Chelsea’s season hasn’t started as expected. Their disjointed performance in a 2-0 defeat to Manchester City highlighted a team still finding its rhythm.
This was followed by an uninspiring 2-0 victory against Servette in the Conference League qualifying round, where the Blues were outshot 22-14 by their Swiss opponents and conceded more corners. Despite the win, concerns remain about Chelsea’s cohesion and effectiveness.
Off the pitch, Chelsea have been plagued by issues as well, with manager Enzo Maresca revealing that he has exiled over 15 players from first-team training. This internal turmoil appears to be affecting their on-field performances, and a trip to Molineux doesn’t look like the ideal fixture to get back on track.
Wolves hunting for points
Wolves may have seen key players like Max Kilman and Pedro Neto depart during the transfer window, but they’ve shown resilience and the ability to rise to the occasion against Chelsea. Wolves have won the last three meetings between these two sides, including a 4-2 victory at Stamford Bridge last season.
In their season opener, Wolves faced a strong Arsenal side and narrowly lost 2-1, but they had moments where they could have altered the course of the game. David Raya’s incredible save from Jorgen Strand Larsen’s header kept Arsenal in control, but Wolves showed they still have the quality to trouble top teams.
With Matheus Cunha likely to start after making an impact off the bench against Arsenal, Wolves will feel confident of continuing their good form against Chelsea.
Betting Tips
- Wolves Double Chance (Win or Draw): Given Wolves’ recent dominance in this fixture and Chelsea’s ongoing struggles, backing Wolves to avoid defeat is a solid option. The hosts have a good track record against the Blues and could take advantage of Chelsea’s lack of cohesion.
- Both Teams to Score: This bet has been a winner in ten of Chelsea’s last 11 away games, including a thrilling 4-2 encounter between these two sides in February. With Wolves likely to be buoyed by their recent success against Chelsea, and Chelsea’s defensive vulnerabilities, goals at both ends seem likely.
Wolfsburg vs Bayern Munich
The Bundesliga kicks off this weekend with an intriguing clash between Wolfsburg and Bayern Munich.
As Bayern embarks on a new chapter under Vincent Kompany, they will be eager to assert their dominance in the league after a season that saw them miss out on the title. Wolfsburg, however, won’t be pushovers, especially on home turf. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in this matchup and the best betting tips for the game.
Bayern’s Winning Ways
Despite falling short in the title race last season, Bayern Munich still showcased their quality by winning 23 of their 34 Bundesliga matches.
The Bavarians have a strong record against Wolfsburg, having won the last four meetings between the two sides. This dominance is likely to continue as they aim to start the season on a high under their new manager.
Kompany’s reign began with a comfortable 4-0 victory over Ulm in the DFB-Pokal, a result that was expected given the disparity in quality between the sides. However, the real challenge begins on Sunday with the Bundesliga opener. Kompany will be eager to stamp his authority early and guide Bayern to a successful campaign.
Wolfsburg’s Home Advantage
While Bayern are clear favorites, Wolfsburg will take comfort in their ability to find the back of the net against the Bavarian giants. Bayern have conceded in each of their last four visits to the Volkswagen Arena, and Wolfsburg will be keen to exploit any defensive vulnerabilities.
Bayern’s away form last season was far from perfect, with the team conceding in their final 14 away games. This gives Wolfsburg hope that they can at least get on the scoresheet, even if a victory may be out of reach.
Betting Tips
- Bayern to Win: Bayern Munich has a strong record against Wolfsburg and are expected to claim all three points. With their quality and the new manager’s bounce under Kompany, backing Bayern for the win seems like a solid choice.
- Both Teams to Score: Given Bayern’s tendency to concede on the road and Wolfsburg’s ability to score against them in recent meetings, betting on both teams to score is a smart option. Bayern’s defense is still a work in progress under Kompany, and Wolfsburg will look to take advantage.
- Over 2.5 Goals.
Atletico Madrid vs Girona
Atletico Madrid and Girona are set to clash in what promises to be an exciting encounter between two of last season’s top-four finishers.
Atletico, who secured a third-place finish, and Girona, who finished fourth, will both be eager to lay down a marker in the early stages of the campaign. Here’s a closer look at what to expect from this match and the key betting tips.
Atleti’s Going Hard
Atletico’s home form last season was nothing short of formidable.
Diego Simeone’s side won 16 of their 19 La Liga matches at the Metropolitano, turning their home ground into a fortress. The Madrid-based club has long been known for its solid defensive structure and resilience, but they also showcased a more attacking edge last season, particularly in front of their home fans.
With the acquisition of Conor Gallagher from Chelsea, after a summer-long transfer saga, Simeone has added a dynamic midfielder who fits perfectly into Atleti’s high-intensity, physically demanding style of play. Gallagher’s arrival should provide an immediate boost to their midfield, enhancing both their defensive solidity and attacking transitions.
Girona’s Summer Changes
Despite a strong finish last season, has seen some significant changes to their squad over the summer. The departures of key players like Artem Dovbyk and Aleix Garcia leave question marks over whether their replacements can maintain the high standards set last term.
While Girona’s squad may still be adapting, their ability to score goals remains, as evidenced by their 1-1 draw with Real Betis in their recent outing.
Betting Tips
- Atletico Madrid to Win: Given Atleti’s imperious home form and the fact that Girona are still adjusting to their summer changes, backing Atletico to secure a win is a safe bet. Simeone’s side rarely falters at home, and with their squad further strengthened, they should have enough to see off Girona.
- Corner: O 6.5
- Girona shot on target: O 3.5
