Premier League talking points: Mourinho misery and Chelsea ahead of schedule
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A round-up of this weekend’s football
The Premier League produced another round of thrilling football in the second weekend of the season.
There’s plenty to discuss this morning and the Coral News Team have the five biggest taking points…
Big problems for Manchester United
Jose Mourinho’s side were outplayed and outfought in their 3-2 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday afternoon.
United still don’t look like creating many chances, despite all their attacking talent. Even more worryingly, they were far too open at the back as well. Mourinho brought in Eric Bailly and Victor Lindelof for big money, but the two centre-backs were a disaster at the Amex Stadium.
Are these early symptoms of Mourinho’s third-season syndrome? He’s now the 7/2 favourite to be the next Premier League manager to leave.
Chelsea starting to click under Sarri
After two years playing in Antonio Conte’s rigid system, it seemed like Chelsea would need some time to adapt to Maurizio Sarri’s adventurous attacking style.
But their 3-2 win over Arsenal suggests they’re starting to get to grips with it already. Even though Eden Hazard started on the bench, the Blues created plenty of chances. Alvaro Morata’s well-taken goal will give the striker plenty of confidence too.
Chelsea did give Arsenal too many sights of goal, but their fans will really enjoy watching them go forward this season. Sarris’ side are 2/5 to finish in the top four, or 12/1 for a surprise title win.
Alderweireld’s return a major boost for Spurs
Tottenham Hotspur may not have signed anyone in the transfer window, but Toby Alderweireld made a welcome return to the starting XI against Fulham.
The Belgium international only made three starts in the league from November last season. He was expected to move in the summer, but having remained at the club, he could be a very important figure.
He’s still more reliable in defence than Davinson Sanchez and his ability to spray the ball out wide is a very useful weapon.
Woe ahead for West Ham?
West Ham United showed real ambition in the transfer market this summer. Hammers fans went into the new campaign full of excitement. But after just two games, it looks like they have the same old problems.
Manuel Pellegrini’s side took a 1-0 lead against Bournemouth but allowed the visitors to complete a second-half comeback and win 2-1. That followed their limp 4-0 opening weekend defeat to Liverpool.
With games against Arsenal, a resurgent Everton, Chelsea and United on the horizon, it could be a tough few weeks for the East Londoners. They’re 5/1 to be relegated.
Is Europe already proving a distraction for Burnley?
Burnley haven’t even qualified for the Europa League yet but the demands of European football already look to be having an effect on the team’s domestic form.
Sean Dyche made plenty of changes for Thursday’s extra-time win against Istanbul Basaksehir. His players won’t be tired just yet, but the reduced preparation time for league games could be costly.
The Clarets only lost twice at home to a side outside the top six last season. But they made things far too easy for Watford on Saturday. The Hornets ran out comfortable 3-1 winners. It’s now just 5/2 that Burnley go down this season.
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