Manchester City maintained their flawless start to the Premier League season with a thrilling comeback victory over Brentford at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.
The match got off to a rocky start for the Blues, as Yoane Wissa headed in a goal for Brentford, putting the visitors ahead in the early minutes. However, City’s talisman Erling Haaland turned the game around with two goals before the 30-minute mark, securing a crucial three points for Pep Guardiola’s side.
City’s win became even sweeter when news broke from Anfield that Liverpool—previously the only other team with a perfect record—had been stunned by Nottingham Forest, thanks to a Callum Hudson-Odoi strike. With this result, City stands alone at the top of the table as they head into a challenging period of fixtures. Here’s a look at how City’s upcoming matches stack up against their Premier League title rivals.
Manchester City’s next five fixtures
- Arsenal (H) – September 22
- Newcastle United (A) – September 28
- Fulham (H) – October 5
- Wolverhampton Wanderers (A) – October 20
- Southampton (H) – October 26
verdict:
The key games here are undoubtedly the first two. Facing Arsenal at home will be a crucial test, especially with City’s unbeaten start on the line. A win would widen the gap between City and one of their closest title contenders. Newcastle away at St James’ Park is also a potential banana skin, given their recent resurgence. While Fulham, Wolves, and Southampton shouldn’t be overlooked, City must pick up maximum points from these fixtures if they aim to stay ahead in the title race.
Arsenal’s next five fixtures
- Tottenham Hotspur (A) – September 15
- Manchester City (A) – September 22
- Leicester City (H) – September 28
- Southampton (H) – October 5
- AFC Bournemouth (A) – October 19
verdict:
Arsenal will be laser-focused on their next two matches, which could be pivotal for their title hopes. A North London Derby against Spurs is always intense, but it’s the clash with City that could have the biggest impact on their season. After these high-stakes games, Arsenal will target three wins from three against Leicester, Southampton, and Bournemouth, but as the Premier League often proves, no result is guaranteed.
Liverpool’s next five fixtures
- AFC Bournemouth (H) – September 21
- Wolverhampton Wanderers (A) – September 28
- Crystal Palace (A) – October 5
- Chelsea (H) – October 20
- Arsenal (A) – October 27
verdict:
On paper, Liverpool appears to have the easiest run of fixtures compared to their title rivals, but the last two matches could be problematic. Chelsea’s form remains unpredictable, but the trip to Arsenal at the Emirates will be a true test for the Reds, especially under their new manager. If Liverpool can get through these next few games unscathed, they will be serious contenders for the title.
As the Premier League heats up, all eyes will be on these key fixtures. With City holding the edge after Liverpool’s slip-up, the next few weeks could shape the early title race.
