The wait is finally over. The Premier League kick-off on Friday, 11 August 2023, as defending Champions Manchester City travel to Turf Moore to face newly promoted side Burnley.
Last season’s runners-up, Arsenal, will welcome Nottingham Forest to the Emirates on Saturday. The most prominent fixture of the week will be on Sunday at Stamford Bridge as Chelsea face Liverpool.
What is Dimitar Berbatov’s Prediction for Match Week One?
As an Ambassador of Betfair, Previewing the Premier League matches, Dimitar Berbatov revealed:
Burnley vs Manchester City
“Imagine if Burnley shock everyone and beat Manchester City? I remember when I went to Turf Moor with Manchester United and lost 1-0. The dressing room was so small, I was like ‘What the hell’. But Manchester City will want to bounce back after their Community Shield loss against Arsenal. I predict the Premier League champions to bounce back and beat Burnley to start off the season. Prediction: 0-2.“
Arsenal vs Nottingham Forest
“Confidence will be high for Arsenal after winning the Community Shield against Manchester City. I don’t see how Forest can hurt Arsenal, and I think Mikel Arteta’s side will want to start strong. I’m backing Arsenal to beat Nottingham Forest. Prediction: 3-1.”
Sheffield United vs Crystal Palace
“That will be an interesting game. I predict Sheffield United to win against Crystal Palace because I think they’ll be pumped up to play in the Premier League again. Crystal Palace are a team they can beat too, especially as they’ve lost Wilfried Zaha. Prediction: 2-1.”
Bournemouth vs West Ham
“I can see this one being a draw. West Ham had a great season and winning the Europa Conference League trophy was a great achievement, but they lost their star man in Declan Rice. They have not bought enough players yet either and I’m still expecting them to strengthen. Prediction: 1-1.”
Brighton vs Luton Town
“I love watching Brighton play football. They were great last season and I’m expecting more of the same from them. The way they pass the ball and control the game is great. I think they’ll start the season well and beat Luton. Prediction: 3-0.”
Everton vs Fulham
“Everton need to start better, they’re a big club and they shouldn’t be worrying about relegation. I didn’t like seeing Everton battling near the bottom of the league. Last season it felt like they lost their bullying factor. When I played and someone told me Everton was next, I’d say ‘Oh my god, not Everton, the bullying, elbows and hitting’, they don’t have that effect anymore. The crowd needs to get loud again because, at Goodison Park, it sounds like the fans are right on top of you when they’re loud. They need to put that fear back in their opposition. This won’t be an easy start and I can see it being a draw. Prediction: 1-1.”
Newcastle vs Aston Villa
“The Newcastle fans are so passionate and will always support the team. St James’ Park was always a great place to go, but also terrifying, everyone there is screaming at you. Last season was unbelievable for them, they need to continue on their trend and keep progressing. Aston Villa look promising this season, but I think Newcastle will come out on top in this one. Prediction: 1-0.”
Brentford vs Tottenham
“I always have big expectations for Tottenham at the start of each season. It’s best if we let Spurs get on with it and we don’t shine too much limelight on them. Going to Brentford is tricky, I can see Spurs coming away with a draw at Brentford. Prediction: 2-2.”
Chelsea vs Liverpool
“I have big expectations for Chelsea, I’d like to see them perform better this season and challenge for the title. Liverpool know they need to do better than last season, but I think Chelsea will be a surprise. Prediction: 2-1.”
Manchester United vs Wolves
“Wolves is a must-win game for Manchester United, especially as I expect them to challenge for the title because it’s about time. There has been a lot happen off the pitch with Wolves this week and they will want to put everything behind them with a win to start well, but I don’t see that happening at Old Trafford. I expect United to win this one. Prediction: 2-0.”
