League football is back in action after the first international break of the 2024/2025 season, bringing excitement and high-stakes matches for fans worldwide.
This weekend’s fixtures are not just important for domestic league standings but also set the stage for the upcoming UEFA Champions League, which is about to kick off in its new format.
With several thrilling games lined up, here are the top five matches to keep an eye on this weekend.
Southampton vs Manchester United – Saturday, 14th September
All eyes are on Manchester United and their manager, Eric Ten Hag, as they travel to face Southampton. The Red Devils have struggled at the start of the season, with only 3 points from their first three games, including back-to-back losses to Brighton and Liverpool. This has raised questions about Ten Hag’s future at Old Trafford and the overall direction of the club. Tensions were further heightened after Ten Hag’s response to Cristiano Ronaldo’s comments on the club’s ambition. A loss against Southampton could result in Manchester United experiencing their worst start to a season since 1986/87. For Ten Hag and his team, this match is not just about the three points; it’s about proving that they are still contenders in the league.
Real Sociedad vs Real Madrid – Saturday, 14th September
Real Madrid’s season has been inconsistent so far, and they will look to stabilize when they visit Real Sociedad at the Anoeta Stadium. Before the international break, Madrid narrowly secured a win against Real Betis, but the team has yet to find the dominant form expected of title defenders. Currently, Real Madrid sits second in the league with 8 points, while Real Sociedad is in 13th place with just 4 points. This match is crucial for Madrid as they aim to keep pace with the league leaders. A win would not only boost their confidence but also send a message that they are serious about defending their title this season.
Hoffenheim vs Bayern Leverkusen – Saturday, 14th September
Bayern Leverkusen’s unbeaten run came to an abrupt end before the international break when they lost to Leipzig. Despite their strong start to the season, this loss highlighted areas for improvement as they aim to maintain their status as a top team in the league. Leverkusen will now face Hoffenheim, who currently sit 11th with only 3 points. This match presents a perfect opportunity for Leverkusen to bounce back and show that their early-season form was not just a fluke. However, Hoffenheim will be eager to capitalize on Leverkusen’s recent vulnerabilities, making this a match worth watching.
Tottenham Hotspur vs Arsenal – Sunday, 15th September
The London Derby between Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal is set to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams looking to bounce back from disappointing results before the international break. Arsenal, who will be missing key players Martin Odegaard and Ricardo Calafiori due to injuries, struggled to secure a win against Brighton in their last match. Tottenham, on the other hand, suffered a defeat to Newcastle. The stakes are high as both teams aim to prove themselves in one of the most anticipated fixtures of the season. Despite the injuries, Arsenal will be determined to claim bragging rights in this fierce rivalry, while Tottenham will hope to use their home advantage to get back on track.
Girona vs Barcelona – Sunday, 15th September
Girona has proven to be a tough opponent for Barcelona in recent seasons, famously beating them both home and away last season. However, Barcelona is in fine form this year, having won all four of their opening matches and currently sitting at the top of the table. This game is not just about points; it’s about redemption for Barcelona, who will be eager to overturn last season’s results against Girona. For Girona, it’s a chance to show that last year’s victories were no fluke and that they can compete with the best teams in the league. With both teams motivated to prove a point, this match promises to be an exciting showdown.
