The fourth round of Premier League matches this weekend will precede the first international break of the season. Here are five things to look out for.
Mourinho on the brink?
José Mourinho is having a hard time convincing the world that all is okay at Manchester United. He spent a majority of the summer complaining about inconvenient pre-season plans and a lack of transfers. Two defeats in the Red Devils’ first three matches and talk of a rift within the power corridors at Old Trafford have then fuelled rumours that the Portuguese manager could be on borrowed time.
They face Burnley on Sunday, who have won only one point so far this season. Failure to win at Turf Moor could very well mark the beginning of the end for Mourinho at United.
Aguero to extend incredible Newcastle record?
Sergio Aguero has enjoyed a brilliant start to the season. He started by scoring two goals to seal the Community Shield for Manchester City against Chelsea. Since then, he has three goals in three Premier League matches. He will fancy his chances of extending that run this weekend, as he comes up against his favourite opponent, Newcastle United.
Aguero has scored more goals against the Magpies (14) than against any other side in his career. Even more remarkably, he has achieved that feat in just nine appearances. The last time the two teams met, he helped himself to a hat-trick.
Can Emery fix Arsenal’s away form?
Were it not for their away form last season, Arsenal might have very well been in the title race. While only City won more points at home (50) than Arsenal’s 47, the Gunners lost 11 times on the road, and only won four times. Their first away trip of this season ended in a 3-2 defeat by Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, although they did produce a promising performance.
One of the biggest tasks for new manager Unai Emery this season is to turn around that form away form, starting with this weekend’s match at Cardiff City.
Bournemouth test for Sarri-ball
Maurizio Sarri has enjoyed a seamless start to life as Chelsea manager. Victories against Huddersfield Town, Arsenal and Newcastle United mean that his side is one of four teams to retain a 100% record this season. On top of that, the Blues have showed glimpses of a more attacking outlook than they did last season under Antonio Conte, as Sarri imprints his style on the team.
They come up against a Bournemouth side who have proven to be very tenacious so far this season. It will be a huge test for Sarri’s philosophy, as well as his team’s ability to carry on winning.
More woe for West Ham?
West Ham United lie bottom of the Premier League after three games. They have lost all of their matches so far and only scored two goals. They did win against Wimbledon in the League Cup this week, but they struggled to break them down for most of the match, despite the League One side falling a man short in the 18th minute. They face Wolverhampton Wanderers this weekend.