EPL 2019-20: Manchester United to face Chelsea on opening weekend
The fixtures for the Premier League 2019-20 season are finally out. The new season kicks off on August 9, 2019 with Liverpool taking on promoted outfit Norwich City at Anfield. Champions Manchester City face an away test at West Ham. Manchester United and Chelsea embroil in the marquee clash on August 11. Here is the analysis.
A look at Liverpool's blockbuster start in August
Liverpool have a busy and interesting start in 2019. They will take on City in the FA Community Shield on August 4. Jurgen Klopp's men will host Norwich in the Premier League next, before facing Chelsea in the UEFA Super Cup on August 14. The Reds travel to Southampton next in the EPL. Klopp will have two shots at trophies in the opening stages.
Chelsea will be tested immensely in new season
Chelsea's travel to Old Trafford makes sure that the Premier League opening weekend ends on a strong note. This would be the first high-octane clash of the season. The Blues, who might not be able to make signings due to transfer ban, could be under a new manager. Post the United clash, they face Liverpool and Leicester City.
Spurs and Arsenal have a tough run-in
Tottenham Hotspur face Aston Villa in the opening weekend, but life will get tougher as August progresses. They face City on August 17, Newcastle (August 24) and then the north London derby at the Emirates on August 31. The Gunners, who face Newcastle on August 11, have a stern test ahead. They face Burnley next, with Liverpool and Tottenham battles following suit.
How about the Manchester clubs?
United need to start well with two big clashes on offer. After facing Chelsea at home, they take on Wolves away. They failed to beat Wolves in all three attempts last season. Meanwhile, City have an easier run of games in August to start with in the Premier League. We might see Guardiola's side maximizing from the first set of games and starting well.
Key info about mid-season break and VAR
The mid-season break will be in play from this season onwards. So we will witness a split of matches in February. Five matches will take place over the weekend of February 8, with the other five played on the weekend of February 15. Also, Video assistant referees (VAR) will make its debut in the Premier League.
