Sunday will be the first Clasico played without Messi and Ronaldo in 10 years and somehow that is something of a sidenote, as Julen Lopetegui continues his semi-annus horibilis by being on the verge of being sacked, less than 10 weeks into his season. Real Madrid won -tediously- in the Champions League, and Isco has issued a fiery proclamation of support for his manager, but the writing seems to be on the wall, and not in faint ink either. And really, the fact that there is clamor for 18 year old new signing Vinicius Jr tells you more than you need. For Barcelona the absence of their talismanic star has so far been alleviated by a squad that is still one of the very best in Europe. Their league start, though better than Real's, has been pushy as well. But with Coutinho and Rafinha surrounding Suarez effectively, they'll be confident in their chances of taking a 7pt lead on their arch-rivals.

Spurs and City meet in one of the biggest Monday night fixtures in recent memory. Only 2pts separate them, which should reassure Spurs fans despite some early season struggles and injuries. Everton travel to Old Trafford hot off 2 straight wins, though they haven't beat the Red Devils since 2015.

EPL
Saturday, October 27
Brighton & Hove Albion v Wolverhampton Wanderers 9:00 AM (CT)
Fulham v AFC Bournemouth 9:00 AM
Liverpool v Cardiff City 9:00 AM
Southampton v Newcastle United 9:00 AM
Watford v Huddersfield Town 9:00 AM
Leicester City vWest Ham United 11:30 AM
Sunday, October 28
Burnley v Chelsea 8:30 AM
Crystal Palace v Arsenal 8:30 AM
Manchester United v Everton 11:00 AM
Monday, October 29
Tottenham Hotspur v Manchester City 3:00 PM