London (AFP)
To follow the infernal train led by Manchester City, its dolphin and neighbor, United, will not be able to afford a misstep, Tuesday, against Southampton, for the 22nd day of the Premier League.
With 8 consecutive wins in the league, including the last 5 without conceding a goal, Manchester City took a 3-point lead in the lead, with one game late.
For 12 days, they have garnered 32 points out of 36 possible, a course that closely resembles that of Liverpool last year and could quickly turn to the lone rider if the competition weakens.
This was somewhat the case with United, its main rival and first title contender in action, from Tuesday (9.15 p.m.), which remains on a defeat and a draw.
Faced with the Saints in clear loss of speed - 6 points taken in the last 8 matches, after 23 of the first 12 days - victory will be imperative to put pressure on the Citizens before their trip to Burnley on Wednesday (19:00).
Faced with a team they have beaten 11 times in the last 12 meetings, to a draw, scoring at least three goals in 8 times, City will leave largely favorite.
A success would allow Pep Guardiola's men to keep at least 4 points ahead of Liverpool, who receives 17th, Brighton, (9.15pm), before the clash between the champions of the last three seasons, at Anfield, on Sunday.
The Reds will seek to defend their 3rd place against the onslaught of Leicester, who move to relegation Fulham.
At the end of this day, Thursday, the London derby will pit Tottenham and Chelsea, respectively 6th and 7th, tied on goal difference (33 points).
A possible loser would see his chances in the race for the first 4 places, qualifying for the Champions League, seriously damaged.
Tuesday:
(19H00) Sheffield United - West Bromwich Albion
Wolverhampton - Arsenal
(9:15 p.m.) Manchester United - Southampton
Newcastle - Crystal Palace
Wednesday:
(7:00 p.m.) Burnley - Manchester City
Fulham - Leicester
(8:30 p.m.) Leeds v Everton
(9:15 p.m.) Aston Villa - West Ham
Liverpool - Brighton
Thursday:
(9 p.m.) Tottenham - Chelsea
© 2021 AFP