Premier League icon Alan Shearer has delivered his expert forecasts for the final round of top-flight fixtures in 2025, headlined by a seismic title showdown in North London.
The Title Race Showdown at the Emirates
The most anticipated clash sees league leaders Arsenal host an Aston Villa side riding an incredible wave of form. Arsenal sit top post-Christmas, but Villa have the chance to move level on points if they can triumph at the Emirates. Shearer highlighted the visitors' stunning run of 11 consecutive wins and their recent upper hand over the Gunners, having taken four points from the last two meetings. "It's an unbelievable opportunity for Villa," Shearer noted, predicting a tense draw in this pivotal encounter.
Pressure Mounts in the Race for Europe and Relegation Battle
Elsewhere, Shearer foresees a crucial away victory for Newcastle United at Burnley, stating a defeat would see "the noise get louder" for manager Eddie Howe given the Clarets' poor form. He also predicts a home win for Chelsea against a struggling Bournemouth, warning the Cherries could be dragged into the relegation scrap.
In the mid-table, Shearer expects Nottingham Forest to capitalise on Everton's woes with a home win, while a London derby between Crystal Palace and Fulham is tipped to end in a draw. He also forecasts a share of the spoils when West Ham host Brighton, citing poor form from both clubs.
Home Comforts for the Giants
The former England captain expects the traditional powerhouses to hold firm on their own turf. Despite injury and AFCON absences, he predicts a Manchester United win against Wolves at Old Trafford. Similarly, he backs Liverpool for a home victory against a Leeds United side in good form, led by Dominic Calvert-Lewin's scoring streak.
In a surprise pick, Shearer is backing Brentford for a home win over Tottenham, praising manager Keith Andrews for a brilliant job after selling key players. The round concludes with an expected Manchester City away win at Sunderland, with Shearer marvelling at the "incredible" depth of talent at Pep Guardiola's disposal.
All predictions were made by Shearer in his role as a Betfair ambassador and shared exclusively with Metro on December 30, 2025.
