The Premier League returns to centre stage this weekend after a brief FA Cup interlude, with a full slate of ten fixtures set to unfold from Saturday to Monday. The headline act is a lunchtime Manchester derby that could have significant implications at the top of the table.
Saturday Showdowns: Derby Day Drama and London Stalemates
The weekend's action kicks off at Old Trafford with a daunting task for Manchester United's new interim head coach, Michael Carrick. Appointed this week, Carrick faces the immediate challenge of halting the relentless Manchester City juggernaut. Pep Guardiola's side are unbeaten in 13 games across all competitions, winning ten of those, and will look to close the gap on leaders Arsenal with a victory in the 12:30 pm kick-off. Our prediction is a 1-3 win for the away side.
Later on Saturday, Chelsea welcome Brentford to Stamford Bridge fresh from a midweek EFL Cup semi-final first leg defeat to Arsenal. Boss Liam Rosenior will hope for returning players, but faces a Bees side in superb form, having won five of their last six. Given that three of the last four meetings have ended level, a 2-2 draw is forecast.
Elsewhere, Leeds host Fulham at Elland Road, with the home side tipped for a 2-1 victory to continue their solid run. Liverpool, despite recent league draws, are expected to comfortably see off a struggling Burnley by 2-0. Sunderland's impressive unbeaten home record should help them secure a 1-1 draw against a Crystal Palace side eager to atone for a poor FA Cup display.
The London clash between Tottenham and West Ham sees two out-of-form rivals meet. With Spurs winning just once in seven and West Ham without a league victory since early November, a narrow 1-0 home win is anticipated.
Super Sunday and Monday Night Football
The weekend concludes with two fixtures on Sunday and one on Monday. Wolves, showing renewed fight, are predicted to edge a 2-1 win over Newcastle at Molineux. Aston Villa's remarkable form – 13 wins in 15 games – makes them strong favourites to beat Everton by 2-1 at Villa Park.
The final game of Gameweek 22 is on the South Coast, where Brighton meet Bournemouth. Both sides have underwhelmed this season, but Brighton's home advantage sees them tipped for a 2-1 victory on Monday night.
Arsenal Aim to Maintain Title Charge at Forest
The standout Saturday evening fixture sees league leaders Arsenal travel to Nottingham Forest. Mikel Arteta's Gunners have lost just twice in 32 games across all competitions and are in formidable shape. With a squad strengthened over the summer, they are genuine contenders on multiple fronts.
For Forest, the objective remains Premier League survival, which they are expected to achieve. However, they are unlikely to halt Arsenal's march here. We predict a comprehensive 0-3 away win for the title-chasing North London side.
City AM's journalism is supported by our readers. If you click links to other sites on this page, we will earn a commission.
Place Your Bets: bet365 Bet £10 Get £30 in Free Bets
T&Cs: Min deposit requirement. Free Bets are paid as Bet Credits and are available for use upon settlement of qualifying bets. Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. Time limits and T&Cs apply. Registration Required. #AD 18+ Gambling Can Be Addictive. Please Play Responsibly. Registration Required. GambleAware GamStop Gambling Commission
Responsible Gambling
It is easy to get swept up in the excitement when betting on the English Premier League. With some really exciting matches coming up, it is essential that users stay in control of their gambling habits. The first step is to set a betting budget. Alternatively, bettors can utilise other tools, such as time-outs and self-exclusions.
If your gambling gets out of hand, be sure to contact one of the many gambling support authorities (e.g., GamCare and GambleAware). City AM is committed to responsible gambling. Please gamble responsibly and only bet what you can afford. To gain help, support and advice for a person struggling with gambling, contact the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133. If you are worried about your gambling or that of a friend visit gambleaware.org.
