Key Points:
- Gameweek 22 could be pivotal in the Premier League title race.
- Liverpool visit Brentford, while Arsenal host Aston Villa in critical matches on Saturday.
- Chelsea and Wolves wrap up the weekend at Stamford Bridge on Monday night.
The first Premier League midweek action of 2025 didn’t disappoint. Manchester United secured a comeback win against Southampton, while Liverpool’s draw at Nottingham Forest allowed Arsenal to close the gap at the top after their victory in the North London Derby.
Liverpool’s lead is now just four points, giving Arsenal a chance to ramp up pressure if they can maintain form. However, the Gunners need consistency, especially during this critical phase of the season, to challenge for their first league title in over two decades.
With both title contenders in action on Saturday, Gameweek 22 feels like a pivotal moment in the race.
Saturday, 18 January

Newcastle vs Bournemouth
Newcastle will host Bournemouth in the early kick-off, aiming for their seventh consecutive Premier League victory. Eddie Howe’s side has been relentless at St. James’ Park, and Bournemouth, missing key striker Evanilson, face a tough task.
Prediction: Newcastle 2-0 Bournemouth
Brentford vs Liverpool
Liverpool will look to recover from their draw at Nottingham Forest but face a Brentford side buoyed by their comeback against Manchester City. While the Bees have been prolific at home, Liverpool’s attacking quality could edge a high-scoring encounter.
Prediction: Brentford 2-3 Liverpool
Leicester vs Fulham
Struggling Leicester, on a five-game losing streak, host a mid-table Fulham side. The visitors are expected to take advantage of Leicester’s defensive vulnerabilities.
Prediction: Leicester 1-2 Fulham
West Ham vs Crystal Palace
A London derby sees West Ham face Crystal Palace. Both sides have been inconsistent, and a draw seems likely in this evenly matched contest.
Prediction: West Ham 1-1 Crystal Palace
Arsenal vs Aston Villa
Arsenal host Aston Villa in the evening kick-off, with the Gunners looking to avoid a repeat of last season’s home and away defeats to Villa. While Villa has the potential to trouble Arteta’s side, a hard-fought draw might be on the cards.
Prediction: Arsenal 2-2 Aston Villa
Sunday, 19 January

Everton vs Tottenham
Tottenham’s injury crisis continues as they visit Everton. Despite their struggles, Spurs should find enough to secure a narrow win against an Everton side reliant on set pieces.
Prediction: Everton 1-2 Tottenham
Man Utd vs Brighton
Manchester United face Brighton at Old Trafford following their dramatic comeback win over Southampton. Brighton, fresh off their first win since November, will provide a stern test, but United’s quality could prevail at home.
Prediction: Man Utd 2-1 Brighton
Nottingham Forest vs Southampton
Nottingham Forest host a Southampton side showing improvement under Ivan Juric. However, Forest’s home form and attacking strength make them favorites for the three points.
Prediction: Nottingham Forest 2-0 Southampton
Ipswich vs Man City
Manchester City travel to Portman Road to face Ipswich. While City’s defensive vulnerabilities remain, their attacking firepower, led by Erling Haaland, should secure a comfortable victory.
Prediction: Ipswich 1-3 Man City
Monday, 20 January

Chelsea vs Wolves
Gameweek 22 concludes with Chelsea hosting Wolves on Monday night. The Blues, struggling for form under Enzo Maresca, will rely on Cole Palmer’s brilliance to break down Wolves. Vitor Pereira’s side, despite recent setbacks, could make it competitive, but Chelsea’s edge in quality should see them through.
Prediction: Chelsea 3-2 Wolves













