Let us talk briefly about the two big favourites in EPL on Saturday as they are less likely to suffer from the international match breaks. These two also top the underlying stats of expected points, but of course, the sample size is small.
FULHAM – ARSENAL 2
Fulham most recently fell to a 1–3 defeat away at Bournemouth. Marco Silva successfully employed the less commonly seen three-center-back formation in that match. The same defense-focused setup will likely be necessary on Saturday, as several key players are sidelined. Arsenal climbed to the top of the table with a 2–0 home win over West Ham, a result that reflected the flow of the game. Losing Martin Ødegaard back to the injury list is a setback, but the squad depth is better equipped to handle injuries than in previous seasons. The home team’s compact defensive block is not easy to break down, but Arsenal’s individual quality is expected to decide the match.
MANCHESTER C – EVERTON
Manchester City’s play has developed in a more balanced direction after the early-season points dropped in easier matches, although concerns over injuries to key players like Rodri still cause headaches. Everton ended Crystal Palace’s impressive unbeaten run before the break, but their 2–1 home win also required some favorable luck. Jack Grealish, who has raised the quality of Moyes’ team in possession, is suspended for this match against his parent club. The clear difference in baseline quality and home advantage justifies Manchester City being the big favorite.