The last round of Premier League fixtures before the 2022 World Cup break will be played this weekend.
No matter what happens, early table toppers Arsenal and Manchester City will be leading the way when the league resumes around Christmas.
However, there could be one or two upsets before the tournament in Qatar kicks off.
1. Man City vs Brentford: Pep Guardiola’s men could have easily dropped points last week against Fulham. Despite Joao Cancelo getting sent off in the first half, Marco Silva’s men decided not to be brave against the champions. At the end of the day, a controversial Erling Haaland penalty earned City all three points. Brentford will seek to sit back and cause their hosts all sorts of problems with their pace and power. And could get a point or more at the Etihad.
2. Wolves vs Arsenal: It is very simple for Mikel Arteta’s team. Beat Wolves at the Molineux and be top of the table going into the World Cup. Julen Lopetegui officially takes over after this game. But don’t rule out manager bounce and its attendant effects.
3. Fulham vs Man Utd: The Red Devils have not been very impressive in their recent games. And against Aston Villa last weekend, you could see if a team decides to start on the front foot against them, they could get rewards. Although the hosts will be without the influential Aleksandr Mitrovic, Silva could galvanize his squad to have a go at Erik ten Hag’s men.