EPL 2021-22, Matchday 1 preview: City gets title defence underway against an unpredictable Tottenham

After a two-week essential break and international commitment, the club football season is back, as the English Premier League 2021-22 got underway from Friday night. Being the defending champion, Manchester City has an arduous task on the opening matchday, as we present the preview involving the top sides.

Brentford shocks Arsenal unsurprisingly
The opener began on Friday night with Arsenal travelling to newly-promoted Brentford. And yes, the Gunners was beaten 0-2, but it does not come as a surprise, as it has more or less been the tradition of Arsenal to goof up its opening game of the season. Nevertheless, the feeble season the Gunners endured last season seems to be continuing.

Manchester United entertains Leeds United
In what could turn out to be another thriller, United hosts Leeds on Saturday. While United finished second last season, Leeds produced an enthraling display of gameplay to finish in the top ten. As it looks to continue from where it left off, both teams would be desperate for a win at Old Trafford. Furthermore, Leeds tends to shock the big sides initially, so United needs to be extra careful here.

Leicester City hosts Wolverhampton Wanderers
Leicester is coming off a splendid performance in the pre-season game, as it tamed City to win the FA Community Shield. Having also won the FA Cup last season, the Foxes would love to keep the momentum going, as it entertains Wolves at home on Saturday. It is likely to be an easy ride for Brendan Rogers and co. However, it can't really be complacent, especially at the season opener.

Chelsea looks to annihilate Crystal Palace
On Saturday, the reigning European champion Chelsea would be up against minnow Crystal Palace in a London derby. While The Blues is the top favourite here for a win, whether the Eagles suffers a heavy defeat remains to be seen.

Liverpool looks to tame Norwich City
Liverpool had an unstable last season but did manage to claw its way up to finish third. As for this season, it takes on a newly-promoted yet familiar foe, Norwich City, at Carrow Road on Saturday. Least to say, it should be an easy and comfortable ride for The Reds.

West Ham United looks to Hammer Newcastle United
West Ham managed to maintain a decent form and finish sixth last season. Therefore, the Hammers would look to continue with the same momentum but looks to do things even better this season, as it gets started against Newcastle at Saint James Park on Sunday. As of now, it is difficult to say who is precisely the favourite here.

City has tough title defence against Tottenham Hotspur
City usually gets started with a bang. However, it begins its title defence on Sunday against an unpredictable Tottenham Hotspur, away from home. While the Cityzens looks like the favourite here, Spurs having the home advantage could spell trouble. Furthermore, it would be interesting to see how new Tottenham manager Nuno Espírito Santo gets things started in London.

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