Liverpool prepare for a tricky-looking match at West Ham this weekend, while Premier League leaders Arsenal travel to Stamford Bridge for a pulsating match against Chelsea.
Liverpool have suffered six defeats in their past seven league games, with few signs that Arne Slot is getting a grip on the situation.
In stark contrast, buoyant leaders Arsenal take on second-placed Chelsea showing clear signs that they are finally equipped to end their two-decade title drought.
Liverpool have lost nine of their past 12 matches in all competitions – a full-blown crisis by the standards of one of the world’s biggest clubs.
The Anfield team are on their worst run of form for more than 70 years, with the pressure mounting on Slot just months after he led them to their 20th English league title.
The Dutchman admitted he had not slept well after Wednesday’s damaging 4-1 defeat by PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League.
Liverpool are suffering from an inability to take their chances and a failure to stamp out defensive errors.
They have conceded more goals in all competitions (34) than any other Premier League side this season.
Sunday’s trip to West Ham is a tough one – the Hammers have been rejuvenated under Nuno Espirito Santo, who took over from the sacked Graham Potter in September.
Liverpool humbled at Anfield again as Arsenal whip Bayern in Champions League
But despite their horrific run of form, Liverpool, a lowly 12th in the league, are just three points behind Aston Villa in fourth spot.
Meanwhile, top of the Premier League and in pole position in the Champions League – Arsenal are showing signs this season could be special.
Analysts Opta give the Gunners a 76 per cent chance of winning the Premier League for the first time since 2004, when Arsene Wenger was manager.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta stayed grounded after Wednesday’s impressive 3-1 win against German giants Bayern Munich in the Champions League, immediately switching his focus to Sunday’s match at Chelsea.
Arteta, whose team are six points clear of Chelsea, says he is happy with the resources at his disposal.
“I look at the players that are coming in and they can change the game,” he said.
Below are Premier League fixtures scheduled for the weekend:
Saturday
Brentford v Burnley
Manchester City v Leeds
Sunderland v Bournemouth
Everton v Newcastle
Tottenham v Fulham
Sunday
Crystal Palace v Manchester United
Aston Villa v Wolves
Nottingham Forest v Brighton
West Ham v Liverpool
Chelsea v Arsenal
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