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As Matchday 18 fades, the excitement of Matchday 19 takes center stage, bringing a fresh set of challenges and high-stakes battles in the Premier League. Boxing Day matches brought drama with Chelsea and Manchester United falling short, while Manchester City could only manage a draw.
With the new year approaching, the Premier League action heats up, especially with crucial matchups that could reshape the league standings. Six fixtures are lined up for today (Sunday), with three more on Monday and the final one on Wednesday.
Here’s a preview of the matches that could have significant implications at both ends of the table.
Key Matchups to Watch:
Can Manchester City Bounce Back? Manchester City’s troubling form continues as they face Leicester City at the King Power Stadium on Sunday. Guardiola’s side has only one win in their last five league matches, with their most recent outing a 1-1 draw against Everton. City now find themselves 14 points behind the top spot, having played an extra game.
Leicester, under Ruud van Nistelrooy, is also struggling, with three straight losses and 10 goals conceded. A win over the defending champions could not only stun City but also potentially lift Leicester out of the relegation zone.
Will Liverpool Push for the Top? West Ham are quietly improving under Julen Lopetegui, remaining unbeaten in their last four games. However, they face a formidable Liverpool side aiming for the top of the table. West Ham are dealing with several key injuries and suspensions, including Tomáš Souček and Lukasz Fabiański.
Liverpool, while also missing players like Konaté and Szoboszlai, still boasts Mohamed Salah, who has been in excellent form. Despite a slightly off record against West Ham, Salah remains a major threat. Will the Hammers be able to halt Liverpool’s title charge?
Newcastle’s Winning Streak: Can They Keep It Going? Newcastle’s momentum is undeniable with three straight wins and 11 goals scored, none conceded. On Monday, they’ll face Manchester United, who are struggling with form and injuries. United has lost three consecutive matches and is languishing in 14th place, while Newcastle’s Alexander Isak has been in scintillating form.
With United captain Bruno Fernandes suspended, Newcastle will be eager to continue their impressive run. Can they pile more misery on the Red Devils?
Arsenal’s Depth Tested Against Brentford Arsenal’s hard-fought victory over Ipswich moved them to second in the standings, but they will face a tough test at Brentford on New Year’s Day. Arsenal will be without Bukayo Saka for at least two months due to injury, a blow for their title aspirations. Despite this, they still boast impressive squad depth, but Brentford has been formidable at home, with 22 points from 27 available.
Arsenal’s away form has been inconsistent, and how they adapt to Saka’s absence will be crucial to their season’s ambitions.
Matchday 19 Fixtures:
Sunday:
- Crystal Palace vs Southampton
- Everton vs Nottingham Forest
- Fulham vs Bournemouth
- Leicester vs Manchester City
- Tottenham vs Wolves
- West Ham vs Liverpool
Monday:
- Manchester United vs Newcastle
- Ipswich vs Chelsea
- Aston Villa vs Brighton
Wednesday:
- Brentford vs Arsenal
Final Thoughts Matchday 19 promises to be a pivotal round of Premier League action. With key teams battling for top spots and others fighting to stay out of the relegation zone, the drama is sure to continue.
