English Premier League Matchday 8 Preview: Predictions and Full Fixtures

The Premier League returns this weekend with a full slate of exciting matches as teams continue their campaigns in the 2023/2024 season. Former Arsenal midfielder and current pundit Paul Merson has shared his predictions for all the Matchday 8 fixtures, offering insights into the potential outcomes.

Saturday’s Fixtures and Predictions

Saturday’s action kicks off at 12:30 with Nottingham Forest hosting Chelsea at the City Ground. Nottingham Forest has found the season challenging so far, sitting 17th after seven games. Chelsea will look to build on their recent form. Merson predicts a tightly contested 1-1 draw.

At 15:00, five matches kick off simultaneously. Newly-promoted Sunderland welcomes Wolves, and Merson tips the home side for a narrow 1-0 victory. Burnley faces Leeds United in another crucial match, which Merson believes will end in a 1-1 draw.

Crystal Palace hosts Bournemouth at Selhurst Park, and Merson foresees a high-scoring 2-2 draw. Brighton takes on Newcastle in another evenly matched fixture, which Merson predicts will also end 2-2. Champions Manchester City face Everton at the Etihad, and Merson has backed Pep Guardiola’s men to secure a comfortable 2-0 victory.

Later in the evening at 17:30, Arsenal travels to Craven Cottage to face Fulham, where Merson expects Mikel Arteta’s side to secure a 2-0 win.

Sunday and Monday Fixtures

Sunday’s matches promise more drama. Tottenham faces Aston Villa in what could be a tactical battle, and Merson predicts a 1-1 draw. The standout fixture of the weekend sees Liverpool welcome Manchester United to Anfield, and Merson is backing the Reds to claim a 2-0 win.

The round concludes on Monday with West Ham hosting Brentford. Merson believes the Hammers will edge that game 2-1.

League Standings and Additional Context

Ahead of Matchday 8, Arsenal leads the table with 16 points, followed closely by Liverpool, Tottenham, Bournemouth, and Manchester City in the top five.