Manchester City charges dominate Premier League build-up as key fixtures loom

Manchester City’s guilty verdict on 114 of 115 financial charges has cast a shadow over the English Premier League, with the competition’s return next weekend featuring several crucial matches.

The club was found to have breached rules relating to artificial revenue declarations, the concealment of its financial position, and a lack of co-operation and honesty during the investigation. Manchester City have appealed against the findings, but the legal dispute is expected to continue.

The outcome could have major consequences for the division, including the possibility of titles being removed, points deductions, relegation or expulsion. City had been the Premier League’s form side before the Fifa international break, winning all five matches to collect 15 points.

Arsenal face Leeds test

Arsenal must respond to a damaging 3-0 defeat by Brighton when they host Leeds on Saturday.

Mikel Arteta’s side were comprehensively outplayed by Brighton in their first defeat of the season. The result was particularly disappointing after Arsenal had been widely regarded as strong favourites to retain the title.

They now need a convincing performance against Leeds to re-establish themselves as serious championship contenders and the team to beat in the division.

Leeds, however, remain unbeaten after five matches and sit fifth in the table. Daniel Farke’s side have won twice and drawn three times. Their form has been unpredictable: they defeated Newcastle 4-1 before being held to a goalless draw by Crystal Palace.

Chelsea’s defensive concerns

Xabi Alonso’s Chelsea made an impressive attacking start, beating Fulham 3-2 and Brighton 4-3. They then lost 2-1 to Arsenal, drew 2-2 with Hull City and suffered a 3-0 defeat by Brentford.

The Blues’ attack, led in part by Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers, has provided plenty of entertainment, but their defensive problems remain severe. They have conceded in 20 successive league matches.

Chelsea appeared more cautious against Brentford as they tried to address those weaknesses, but that approach reduced their attacking threat. Alonso has had several weeks to consider his next move, although Chelsea will need a positive result against 17th-placed Bournemouth if they are to challenge for a top-four place.

Pressure on Manchester United and Spurs

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick and Tottenham Hotspur counterpart Roberto de Zerbi are both under intense pressure.

Manchester United are 12th after winning only once, while Spurs are bottom in 20th and have not yet recorded a victory. Both sides are struggling with confidence, making this an especially difficult fixture for the two managers.

A defeat could prove disastrous for either team, while a draw is also unlikely to satisfy supporters. Victory would provide a clear boost to whichever side achieves it.

City face Liverpool with morale another concern. Enzo Maresca must manage the reaction to the charges, while Liverpool have made an unconvincing start under Andoni Iraola. They have won several matches but have not impressed, and could take advantage of the turmoil surrounding City with an important victory.

Saturday: Aston Villa v Brentford; Ipswich Town v Fulham; Sunderland v Brighton (all kick-off 4pm)

Sunday, October 11: Crystal Palace v Nottingham Forest; Hull City v Everton (both kick-off 3pm)

Monday, October 12: Coventry v Newcastle, 9pm