The month of September came as a boon for football fans all around the world. The onset of the Champions League provided the perfect midweek break that everyone was waiting for. Furthermore, the debuts of Cristiano Ronaldo and Leo Messi for their respective new teams, took it up a notch.
With such fiery instances having taken place in the last month itself, what is there to look forward to within the next four weeks? Read below to learn about the mouthwatering fixtures that you just can't miss in the month of October 2021.
Top 6 blockbuster matches to watch out for in October
#6 Inter Milan v Juventus (Serie A) — 25th October
Serie A has been going on in unexpected fashion so far this term. Napoli leads the chart with favorites Juventus lying in 10th spot!
Both Milan-based sides (Inter Milan and AC Milan) have secured berths in the top three, with the current champions having to settle for a place below their city rivals. After going win-less in their first four Serie A fixtures, Allegri and Co. seem to be back on track.
The Old Lady have secured back-to-back victories in Italy and a win against Chelsea in the recent UCL clash will boost their confidence. On the other hand, Inter Milan, who are yet to taste a defeat, look stronger than ever.
They have thrashed the highest number of goals so far this season and might look to do what their rivals couldn't against Juventus. They welcome Juventus home on October 25th as clear favorites.
#5 Barcelona v Atletico Madrid (La Liga) — 3rd October
La Liga fans weren't expecting much from this season. The departure of El Clasico captains left a big void which wasn't expected to be filled any time soon. However, much to the surprise of many, Liga continues to be one of the most happening leagues this year.
While Barcelona are struggling with their form, Atletico Madrid have slipped quite a few times as well. Both these sides trail behind the common rival — Real Madrid. However, from this fixture, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid will be aiming to get ahead of the minnows who secure berths above them in the league table.
The struggling Catalan side will host Atletico Madrid at the glorious Camp Nou on October 3rd.
#4 Atletico Madrid v Liverpool (UCL) — 20th October
October is a busy month for Diego Simeone's men. While they have put everything on the line to defend their La Liga title, UCL spares them no blushes as well.
Part of the 'group of death' that houses AC Milan, FC Porto and Liverpool, the Rojiblancos have already drawn against the relatively smallest team, FC Porto. The same means facing the table toppers would be massively pressurizing for the 2016 runners-up.
Liverpool are set to travel to Madrid with an in-form squad on the 20th of this month. Can Atletico Madrid, who are struggling within their own league, hold back the 2019 champs? Only time will tell.
#3 Barcelona v Real Madrid (La Liga) — 24th October
El Clasico is the most-sought after face-offs in the history of any sport. Even though there is no more Cristiano-Messi or Ramos-Pique rivalry left, no El Clasico can ever be expected to be less happening.
The Madridistas are cruising under the fine form of Karim Benzema and Vinicius Junior. As of now, facing Barcelona should be an easy task for Los Blancos. However, Blaugrana has got the upper hand with the venue.
Real Madrid's recent records at Camp Nou have been far from impressive and the same could be a fact of concern for Carlo Ancelotti's squad.
#2 Manchester United v Liverpool (PL) — 24th October
The fight for top spot within the Premier League this year has started off from the first week itself. With barely a point separating the top four (Liverpool, City, Chelsea, United), one good or bad game can shuffle the positions completely.
Amidst such close contention comes a mouthwatering fixture in the form of Manchester United v Liverpool. The rivalry between these sides is very well celebrated by the supporters and hence there would be more at stake than just three points.
While United are dependent on Cristiano Ronaldo in terms of finding the back of the net, Liverpool are relaxed with Mane and Salah being on top of their form.
#1 Liverpool v Manchester City (PL) — 3rd October
The Merseysiders' hopes of defending their PL title were hampered by Pep Guardiola's team last term. However, a much-determined Liverpool side once again face a threat from Man City that possesses immense squad depth.
Liverpool leading the points table and not having lost a game so far adds pressure on them. In addition, in their previous fixture against one of the Premier League's big six, LFC had to settle for a draw against a 10-men Chelsea.
Manchester City look comfortable with their form and the return of their MVP Kevin de Bruyne has bolstered their attacking. City will be looking to secure the top berth with this fixture.