Manchester United to face Everton and a Chelsea-Arsenal derby

Manchester United aim to continue their resurgence as they travel to face Everton today in the third round of the English Premier League. The Red Devils secured a convincing 5-2 victory over Ipswich Town in the previous round, with Bruno Fernandes scoring a hat-trick and providing an assist, thereby continuing his outstanding form after being named the Professional Footballers’ Association Player of the Year for the 2025-26 season. United deserved their win, registering 33 shots, their highest total in a league match since October 2016. Of these, 11 were on target, and their expected goals (xG) total reached 4.77. United are missing five injured players: Matthijs de Ligt, Amad Diallo, Carlos Baleba, Tom Heaton, and Manuel Ugarte.

Meanwhile, the London derby between title holders Arsenal and their local rivals Chelsea carries significant importance, as both teams seek to maintain their perfect records. Arsenal and Chelsea, under their new Spanish manager Xabi Alonso, are among the four clubs that have won their first two league matches of the season, alongside Manchester City and newly promoted Hull City. Arsenal began their title defense with the same formidable strength that characterized the end of last season, appearing virtually impenetrable. Their 1-0 victory over Aston Villa last week marked their sixth clean sheet in seven Premier League matches, following their opening 3-0 win against Coventry City.

For their part, Chelsea started Alonso’s tenure with three victories across all competitions. They have looked dangerous in attack but vulnerable defensively. Recent history does not favor Chelsea against Arsenal, who have gone nine consecutive league games without a win against them, ahead of today’s clash at the Emirates Stadium.