Chinese fans were left hugely disappointed by their national team’s performances in the opening rounds of 2018 World Cup qualifiers, in which they were beaten 3-2 by Korea before an uncharacteristic 0-0 draw at home against Iran. But at least they can now look forward to a huge weekend in the Premier League — headed by a mouth-watering Manchester derby. The clash between Pep Guardiola and Josè Mourinho – arguably the two best managers in the world — has been the most talked about of any game since the draw was released over the summer.
The lunch-time kick-off makes it the first game of weekend and safety concerns will play an important role in this fixture. Both teams are in sizzling form, winning their three opening games before the international break. But while the “FIFA Virus” usually grabs the headlines after any international round, Guardiola would be more concerned by the absence of City’s top goal-scorer Sergio Agüero. The Argentinian is serving a three-match suspension following his charge of violent conduct for elbowing West Ham United’s Winston Reid. Agüero’s absence looms as a huge blow for Guardiola as he is now the focal point in City’s attack.
On the other hand, United has home advantage and their key players – Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Paul Pogba – are both injury free. United will be looking to land an early blow in their quest to return to the top of English football.
The new Anfield is the other major talking point this weekend’s Premier League fixtures. Liverpool, who played their first three games away from home due to last few weeks of construction work at home, will play their match at their expanded stadium against reigning champions Leicester City. After the expansion, Anfield can now hold as many as 54,000 fans – a significant a step forward in terms of match-day revenues.
