Exciting games, dramatic results, and one very embarrassing defeat were the main talking points from the latest round of the English Premier League. Man United and Liverpool rekindled their rivalry, whilst Chelsea continued their season domination.
There were also vital wins for north London duo Arsenal and Tottenham, both triumphing 4-0. And then there was Man City’s 4-0 defeat. Here are the major talking points from Matchday 31.
Mourinho vs. Klopp – the managerial rivalry everyone was waiting for
Before this season began, many were already speculating which managerial rivalry would define this season. Many expected Mourinho and Guardiola to butt heads for the title, but that didn’t materialize.
Wenger and the Special One enjoy their regular subtle jibes at one another, but that is nothing new. Where fans can expect two top bosses to lock horns is in Jose’s run-ins with Jurgen Klopp.
The Portuguese and German tacticians crossed paths during Sunday’s Manchester United vs. Liverpool tie. Despite the Reds taking an early lead, they settled for a draw after Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s late equalizer.
Klopp had a touchline argument with Mourinho during the game, and then went on to accuse the Red Devils of playing long balls. Jose will probably not let those remarks slide without a response.
Chelsea can perform without Costa, but need him nonetheless
Chelsea traveled to Leicester on Saturday for what should have been a highly-anticipated game, but it was overshadowed by the controversy regarding Diego Costa. The Spaniard reportedly had a bust-up with Antonio Conte, resulting in the Italian leaving the striker behind.
And there was the issue of a bid from China, but none of that mattered, as the Blues marched to a 3-0 win. This shows that they can perform without Costa, but Chelsea still need to resolve this issue.
They beat a side depleted by the absence of Riyad Mahrez and Islam Slimani. Against the likes of Liverpool, Arsenal, and Man United is when a Costa-less Blues might struggle.
Alexis Sanchez’s frustration at Swansea blown out of proportion
Alexis Sanchez will soon be out of contract, leaving Arsenal fans worried that he may be the next big player to leave the Emirates Stadium. As a result, every moment of frustration, every frown is now making the headlines.
Alexis Sanchez after being subbed vs. Swansea
Against Swansea, the Chilean was upset at being substituted by Arsene Wenger. This moment raised red flags despite Le Prof’s attempts to calm any fear. But this is nothing new, as attackers want to always play and score, and it is down to managers to decide when to let them loose and when to conserve their energy.
Remember when Zidane took Cristiano off, and rumors off a rift emerged? They seem to be doing fine.
