Premier League team news: predicted lineups for the weekend action

The Premier League promises another weekend of captivating drama, with two colossal clashes set to dominate the footballing landscape. Kicking off the action on Saturday, Manchester United host Tottenham Hotspur in a crucial encounter at Old Trafford, live on TNT Sports 1 with a 12:30 pm start. This fixture carries significant weight for both sides, with United desperate to build momentum and climb the table, while Spurs aim to solidify their top-four aspirations under Ange Postecoglou.

For the early Saturday showdown, Manchester United's injury woes continue to be a major talking point. Erik ten Hag will be sweating on the fitness of key defenders like Raphaël Varane and Lisandro Martínez, whose presence would offer much-needed solidity at the back. Upfront, the onus will likely fall on Rasmus Højlund to lead the line, supported by the likes of Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho on the wings. In midfield, Casemiro's return could provide the steel required to combat Tottenham's dynamic engine room. Postecoglou, meanwhile, will be hoping for positive news on James Maddison, whose creativity is vital. Son Heung-min is expected to spearhead their attack, flanked by Brennan Johnson and Dejan Kulusevski, with a midfield three likely featuring Yves Bissouma and Pape Matar Sarr alongside Maddison if fit. Expect a high-energy, attacking approach from Spurs, aiming to exploit any defensive vulnerabilities in the United ranks.

Sunday brings arguably the most anticipated fixture of the season so far as Liverpool welcome reigning champions Manchester City to Anfield. This titanic clash has all the hallmarks of a title decider, with both teams locked in a fierce battle at the top of the league standings. The outcome could significantly impact the destination of the Premier League trophy. Jürgen Klopp’s Reds will be looking to leverage their formidable home record and the electric atmosphere of Anfield against Pep Guardiola’s tactical masterclass.

Predicted lineups for the Anfield spectacle will be intensely scrutinized. Liverpool will be hoping for the return of talisman Mohamed Salah, whose goalscoring prowess could be the difference-maker. Darwin Núñez and Luis Díaz are expected to feature prominently in attack, with the midfield battle between Alexis Mac Allister, Wataru Endo, and Dominik Szoboszlai against City's Rodri, Kevin De Bruyne, and Bernardo Silva promising to be a fascinating contest. For Manchester City, Erling Haaland will undoubtedly lead the line, supported by the likes of Phil Foden and Jack Grealish. Ederson will be between the sticks, with Ruben Dias marshalling the defence. Guardiola's tactical flexibility means we could see various formations, but a strong emphasis on control and exploiting spaces will be paramount. This match is not just about three points; it's about making a definitive statement in the title race.