So here we go again. Game of the week. The start of a new Premier League season.
As Manchester City’s league monopoly continues, the 2023/24 edition of the biggest and richest league in the world is poised to be a classic.
Each week, BestofBets will showcase the pick of the crop each weekend, so what takes top billing for opening day?
Newcastle United v Aston Villa, St. James’ Park, Saturday (17:30 BST)
Though Chelsea’s meeting with Liverpool is a blockbuster opening weekend draw, Newcastle and Aston Villa might just steal the show.
The two European hopefuls should turn on the style, where the hosts carry huge promise after a top three finish last term.
Villa, meanwhile, are now also tipped to challenge the top six with Unai Emery’s side looking particularly well-balanced.
Meeting in Philadelphia only weeks ago, a 3-3 repeat might be unlikely but both sides are flush with quality.
Isak v Watkins
Two of the best forwards in the land are poised to take centre stage on Saturday night.
Villa’s hopes of breaking into the top six this season rest heavily on Ollie Watkins’ shoulders, now a prolific Premier League marksman.
Watkins has a combined 40 league goals in the last three seasons and last term found the net 15 times.
Having scored against the Magpies this summer, Watkins also grabbed a brace at Villa Park back in April. It’s fair to say, Newcastle know his qualities.
In the opposite corner, Isak begins his first full season.
After Callum Wilson was afforded few pre-season minutes, the Swede looks poised.
Midfield battle
The game of the week offering sees battle lines drawn in midfield, offering not only bite but creativity in spades.
Eddie Howe looks set to hand Sandro Tonali his Premier League debut alongside Bruno Guimaraes, who could form a dynamic tag-team this campaign.
However, that is not to say that the visitors lack intensity.
In the Villa engine room, critics still suggest Douglas Luiz is a liability, but the Brazilian has become a cult figure.
And he certainly ticks a box for work rate with managers.
Alongside John McGinn, big things are expected of Emi Buendia in a wide supporting role. The Argentine’s role on Saturday evening will be pivotal.
Diaby debut key
The final settings have been made ✔️ Time to focus on the first game of @premierleague ⚽️🔜 #M19🌪️ pic.twitter.com/Kg83p0epE8
— Moussa Diaby (@MoussaDiaby_19) August 6, 2023
Villa will be expecting big things from big-money signing Moussa Diaby, but can be make an impact on his Premier League bow?
With the Villans set to roll out a 4-2-2 system, Diaby can cause havoc up top with Watkins.
A player with pace to burn, the French winger was a menace in the Bundesliga last term and will look to convert in English football.
Given Newcastle’s offensive style and penchant to flow in wide areas, if Villa can get in behind, Diaby can cause real problems.
Bet on the draw
Newcastle are rightful favourites for three points, however, Villa will be game opposition.
With the hosts set at around 8/11 with BoyleSports, an away win for Emery’s side is a juicy 19/5 with BetUK.
However, it is the draw that looks most favourable at 29/10 with William Hill, whilst a 2-2 draw at 14/1 with QuinnBet could be for perfectionists.
