Matchweek 9 Preview: Chelsea Host Crisis-Hit United Before Liverpool-Arsenal Blockbuster

The Premier League returns this weekend with a heavyweight double-header: Chelsea host Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, and Liverpool welcome Arsenal to Anfield on Sunday.

Saturday's opener is a test of nerve for under-fire United manager Michael Carrick, whose side have not won in the league since late August and were beaten 3-0 at home by Bournemouth last weekend. Chelsea, fifth with 13 points, need a response of their own after a 2-0 home defeat to Tottenham.

Elsewhere on Saturday, Manchester City face Brighton just three days after beating them on penalties in the Carabao Cup, Tottenham host Crystal Palace in a London derby, and Aston Villa take on Fulham under the lights. The round closes on Monday night with Newcastle against Everton.

Saturday headline act

Chelsea against United has rarely felt this tense this early in a season. Both clubs arrive with questions to answer, and the lunchtime kick-off sets the tone for the whole weekend.

Sunday at Anfield

Liverpool against Arsenal is the fixture of the round. Arsenal began the weekend level on points with Manchester City at the top of the table, with Liverpool six points behind — a gap the hosts will be desperate to close in front of their own fans.

Source: DAZN