Merson Says Tottenham vs Everton is Cup Final as Man Derby Becomes Season Definer

Former Arsenal star Paul Merson has described this weekend as a defining one in the Premier League, singling out Tottenham's clash with Everton and the Manchester derby as games that could shape the season despite it being early.

Tottenham head into Saturday Night Football against Everton without a win or a goal after three league games. Merson said the match at home is like a cup final for Roberto De Zerbi's side and could determine their momentum for the coming months.

He argued that defeat would leave Spurs on one point from four games after facing Brentford away, Newcastle at home and Nottingham Forest away, raising serious concern among fans. A win, however, would put them on four points and give them confidence heading into next week's home game against Aston Villa.

Merson noted that last season's final-day meeting between the two sides was even bigger, with Premier League survival on the line, but insisted this weekend's fixture carries huge psychological weight. He said winning breeds confidence and losing creates a snowball effect.

Attention then turns to Sunday's Manchester derby. Merson said Michael Carrick's Manchester United face a balance-point in their season. United drew 2-2 with Everton last time out after conceding twice from winning positions, a result that highlighted defensive concerns.

Merson questioned United's recruitment and squad depth and criticised the decision to bring on a defender while leading at Everton, saying it invited pressure. He maintained his pre-season view that United will not finish in his top five.

For Manchester City, Merson said the post-Pep Guardiola era under Enzo Maresca is about to be properly tested. City have not been at their best but remain dangerous with Erling Haaland scoring and a clean sheet against Coventry last time out. With Manchester United, Sunderland and Liverpool coming up, Merson said the next week will show how good City really are and whether Arsenal can pull away at the top.