Newcastle host Liverpool amid Alexander Isak stand-off, new era begins for Everton

LONDON – Liverpool can expect a hostile reception when they travel to Newcastle United on Aug 25 amid their pursuit of wantaway Magpies striker Alexander Isak, while Manchester United will hope to find goals soon with their new-look attack.

Across Merseyside, a new era begins for Everton on Aug 24 when they welcome Brighton & Hove Albion for the first competitive game at their new 53,000-capacity stadium.

Here are the key talking points ahead of the second weekend of the Premier League season.

Isak future in limbo

Isak is set to sit out the meeting between his current employers and his preferred destination as a stand-off over the Swede’s future rolls into the final week of the transfer window.

Newcastle insist the 25-year-old will not move unless they can source an adequate replacement and Liverpool meet their British transfer record price tag of a reported £150 million (S$259.3 million).

The Reds have had one bid worth £110 million rejected with their business not yet concluded despite splashing £300 million on new recruits.

Isak has said his relationship with Newcastle “can’t continue” after losing trust in the club.

However, the form of Hugo Ekitike has tempered the need for Premier League champions Liverpool to meet Newcastle’s demands, after the French forward registered a goal and an assist on his league debut in the 4-2 win over Bournemouth.

The teething problems for Arne Slot’s new-look side have been in stopping the flow of counter-attacks against them, but they should be stronger with the return of midfielder Ryan Gravenberch from suspension.

Newcastle’s lack of firepower without Isak was exposed as they failed to break down 10-man Aston Villa in a goal-less draw on the opening weekend.

Chances are they will find it tough to beat Liverpool as well.

United’s attack in limelight

The Red Devils face Fulham at Craven Cottage on Aug 24 in their first away match of the season.

After a 1-0 loss to Arsenal last week at Old Trafford, where United’s attack showed promise but failed to convert 22 shots, Ruben Amorim’s side are eager to rebound.

New signings Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo impressed, while Benjamin Sesko featured in a 25-minute cameo against the Gunners.

The 1.95m Sesko, with his aerial prowess, is set to lead the line against Fulham. Cunha and Mbeumo will operate as dynamic No. 10s, with Cunha’s dribbling and Mbeumo’s directness aiming to feed Sesko.

However, Amorim must address goalkeeping issues and midfield gaps and ensure his £200 million attack clicks to avoid further scrutiny. 

Everton’s new era

Everton’s season got off to a frustrating start in a 1-0 defeat by Leeds. But the hope of a bright future lies in the club’s new state-of-the-art home.

After decades in the doldrums for one of England’s historically most successful clubs, the Toffees are banking on the Hill Dickinson Stadium to help bankroll a change in fortunes.

But the move from Goodison Park, which had been their home since 1892, is also fraught with risk. Goodison’s intimidating atmosphere played a big role in helping save Everton from the drop in recent years.

Based on their defeat by Leeds, they will need their new home at Bramley-Moore Dock to be just as much of a fortress to avoid another relegation scrap. AFP