Premier League Round 2 Preview: United Must Tread Carefully, Newcastle’s Tonali Catching Guardiola’s Eye

The second round of the Premier League promises to deliver fireworks as several top teams look to solidify their early-season form. Manchester United, fresh off a controversial victory in their opener, must exercise caution against Tottenham Hotspur to avoid the referee's wrath. Meanwhile, Newcastle United’s standout summer signing Sandro Tonali has already turned heads, potentially making Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola regret overlooking the Italian midfielder.

Tottenham Hotspur vs. Manchester United: Will the Referees Favor United Again?

Manchester United narrowly escaped their season opener with a 1-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers, but the result was marred by controversy. In the dying moments of the game, United’s new goalkeeper, André Onana, collided with Wolves striker Sasa Kalajdzic while contesting a high ball. The Cameroonian's outstretched palm struck Kalajdzic after the forward had already headed the ball. Despite protests from Wolves and scrutiny from fans, referee Simon Hooper and VAR official Michael Salisbury deemed the challenge legal, sparking outrage across social media and among pundits.

Wolves' head coach Gary O’Neil later revealed that the referees' association had apologized for the oversight, acknowledging that Onana’s challenge should have been penalized. The missed call revived memories of previous controversies, including Marcus Rashford’s offside interference in last season’s Manchester Derby, which led to a goal against Manchester City. These incidents have fueled accusations that United receives favorable treatment from officials.

Heading into the clash against Tottenham, United will be under increased scrutiny. Referees may be less lenient this time, and any reckless challenges could see United reduced to 10 men. Erik ten Hag's side must therefore strike a delicate balance between physicality and discipline if they hope to secure a positive result in North London.

Post-Kane Spurs Look for Stability

Tottenham, on the other hand, are navigating their first season in over a decade without talisman Harry Kane, who joined Bayern Munich earlier this month. Although Kane's departure had been rumored in previous transfer windows, his actual exit still sent shockwaves through the fanbase.

In response, Tottenham quickly appointed Son Heung-min as the new club captain, signaling a shift in leadership. Son's promotion likely spells the end of Hugo Lloris' tenure at the club, with the veteran goalkeeper reportedly in talks with Lazio for a transfer.

In their opening fixture against Brentford, Spurs demonstrated resilience but also exposed familiar defensive frailties. Cristian Romero opened the scoring with an early header from James Maddison's cross, but Tottenham's defensive lapses allowed Brentford to turn the game around before halftime. With star striker Ivan Toney absent due to suspension, Brentford lacked a cutting edge, and Spurs managed to equalize through Emerson Royal to secure a 2-2 draw.

Facing United, Tottenham will need to tighten their defense and capitalize on Maddison’s creativity to exploit any weaknesses in United’s backline. Historically, Spurs have struggled against the Red Devils, with their last victory coming in a 6-1 rout under José Mourinho in 2020. Last season’s 2-2 draw, where Spurs clawed back from a two-goal deficit, hinted at a more competitive future in this rivalry.

Both teams are still finding their rhythm, and a tightly contested 1-1 draw appears to be the most likely outcome.

Manchester City vs. Newcastle United: Tonali’s Impact and Guardiola’s Concerns

Manchester City opened their title defense with a commanding 3-0 victory over Burnley, led by former City captain Vincent Kompany. Erling Haaland wasted no time making his mark, scoring twice within the first 40 minutes, while Rodri added a third in the second half.

Despite Burnley’s efforts to emulate City’s possession-based style, the Premier League newcomers were outclassed by Guardiola’s well-oiled machine. City followed up their league win with a grueling 120-minute battle against Sevilla in the UEFA Super Cup, ultimately triumphing in a penalty shootout. However, the physical toll of the midweek fixture could leave City vulnerable against a rejuvenated Newcastle United.

Newcastle's meteoric rise under manager Eddie Howe continues to defy expectations. Backed by significant financial resources, the Magpies secured Champions League qualification last season and have further strengthened their squad this summer. Among their new acquisitions, Sandro Tonali has emerged as a standout performer.

The Italian midfielder wasted no time making an impact, scoring within minutes of his debut against Aston Villa. He later orchestrated two more goals in Newcastle’s emphatic 5-1 victory. Tonali's performance showcased his versatility: in Milan, he often played a combative, Gattuso-like role, but at Newcastle, he is thriving as a deep-lying playmaker in the mold of Andrea Pirlo.

Tonali’s arrival comes at a time when City are grappling with the loss of Kevin De Bruyne, who suffered a serious injury just 20 minutes into the season opener. De Bruyne’s absence is a significant blow, and watching Tonali’s seamless integration into Newcastle’s system might leave Guardiola pondering a missed opportunity.

Newcastle’s Physical and Tactical Edge

Newcastle’s physical advantage and tactical cohesion could pose a genuine threat to City. Unlike City, who expended significant energy in midweek, Newcastle have had a full week to prepare for this clash. Their relentless pressing and quick transitions could exploit any signs of fatigue in City’s ranks.

Guardiola, who used only one substitute during the Super Cup, underscored the importance he places on every fixture. However, this conservative approach may backfire against a Newcastle side brimming with energy and confidence.

Given Newcastle's momentum and City’s potential fatigue, the Magpies could edge this encounter 1-0, securing a statement victory that underscores their status as legitimate title contenders.

As the second round of the Premier League unfolds, all eyes will be on Manchester United’s discipline and Newcastle’s rising star Sandro Tonali. Will United avoid another refereeing controversy, and can Newcastle topple the reigning champions? The answers will shape the early narrative of the 2023-24 season.