Liverpool has faced one of the most difficult fixture schedules of any team in the Premier League so far, but things are about to get a little bit more favorable. The Reds’ first four away trips have taken them to Chelsea, Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur and Brighton and Hove Albion, all sides who will have legitimate ambitions of finishing in the top six or even higher this term.
However, all of the next four opponents for Jürgen Klopp’s side — Everton, Nottingham Forest, Brentford and Luton Town — currently sit between 13th and 16th in the table. But how does this run compare to its competitors?
Well, Arsenal will be the heavy favorite for home fixtures against Sheffield United and Burnley but also has to go to Chelsea and Newcastle, while fellow league leader Spurs will hope to maintain its strong start against Fulham, Crystal Palace and Wolves, and prevail in a London derby against former manager Mauricio Pochettino. Manchester City lost to Arsenal before the international break and a tricky sequence continues as it faces Brighton, Manchester United and Chelsea, though a home game against Bournemouth could provide some respite.
Kevin De Bruyne says ‘no’ to Liverpool transfer question
Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne has ruled out a future move to Liverpool, despite admitting he used to support the club as a child (via Football Escapes). De Bruyne admitted he was a fan of the Reds ‘when he was young’ as he took questions from young fans, but replied ‘no, no’ with laughter when asked if he would sign for the club.
Lionel Messi ‘wins Ballon D’Or’ as missing Liverpool piece remains for Mohamed Salah
Lionel Messi has won the Ballon D’Or for a record-extending eighth time, according to Spanish outlet Sport (via The Mirror). The award won’t officially be handed out until a ceremony on October 30, but Messi has apparently been informed of his victory already.
Messi led Argentina to the World Cup at the end of last year, scoring seven goals in as many matches — including two in the final against France. However, he did leave the European game in the summer to join MLS franchise Inter Miami, and he faced competition from treble-winners at Man City like De Bruyne and record-breaker Erling Haaland.
