Europe's must-see matches when club football returns

03 September 2015 14:28

The summer transfer window has ended, and all the teams are now set for the season to truly begin. Let’s take a look at what September’s first weekend after the international break will bring on the pitches around Europe.

We begin with the Premier League, where we will be heading to Manchester on Saturday. Not only will we be treated to the first bout for the top spot, with leaders Manchester City welcoming Crystal Palace to the Etihad, but to the clash between eternal rivals as well: it’s Manchester United versus Liverpool.

A blue moon has risen over the league, with the leaders maintaining their spotless record against Watford in their last game, and looking better by the week. To see them up top was hardly unexpected, but that’s where Crystal Palace come in. Alan Pardew’s side have been the surprise of the season so far, earning that title by bringing attractive football, and cementing it by beating Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. New signings Cabaye and Sako have hit the ground running, Bolasie has been skinning defenders for sport, but it remains to be seen whether they will have the strength to withstand City’s star-studded side.

Only a short while later, Old Trafford will be the arena in which United will face nemesis Liverpool. Both sides have looked shaky in their first few games, and with both having had a less than stellar transfer window, the bout will be a battle of wits and will, and a first true test for Louis van Gaal and Brendan Rodgers. The visitors’ defence has been wonky to say the least, while United have been sorely lacking in the goals department. Many eyes will be fixed on United striker Wayne Rooney, who has failed to live up to his name so far, and on Louis Van Gaal, whose at times odd choices have attracted much criticism. The pressure is on, and we all hope something bursts during this game.

This Sunday in Italy, The third match day in Serie A delivers another rivalry, the derby between Inter and AC Milan. After several disappointing games between the two sides from Milan, this year’s battle for the San Siro might prove to be different. The former greats have both strengthened their squads considerably, in an attempt to rise to their lost reputations, and to finally challenge for the title once more.

Moving on to Spain, where Atlético Madrid will be facing FC Barcelona. Luis Enrique’s side do not look like the world beaters of last year, snatching a late victory against Malaga – courtesy of Thomas Vermaelen – but seemed to lack the hunger and attacking prowess that won them the treble last season. Meanwhile, Atlético claimed the scalp of Europa League winners Sevilla after a 3-0 win. Both sides have yet to allow a single goal, and have won both their games so far. All will depend on whether Barcelona’s feared trident of Suarez, Neymar and Messi retrieve their stunning form.

And last but not least, leaders CSKA Moscow entertain reigning champions Zenit Saint-Petersburg. With the Lions already trailing six points from the top after only seven games, and coming up against a side with a perfect record so far, they will need to be at their very best to narrow the gap. CSKA have conceded a mere two goals, and Zenit coach Villas-Boas will be counting on his star Hulk, who has scored four goals to his name, to cause an upset.

An exciting weekend awaits us, that much is certain, but which game are you most excited for? Let us know in the comments!

Source: DSG