Matchweek 17 of the 2025/26 Premier League season is set for December 20 to 22, bringing a packed weekend that could shake up both the title race and the battle for Europe. Observations from this match form part of the wider Premier League predictions, alongside analysis of other games from the same matchweek.
The action starts on Saturday at 13:30 with Newcastle facing Chelsea, a big test of intensity and pace right from the early kickoff. At 16:00 there’s a huge block of matches: Bournemouth host Burnley, Brighton meet Sunderland, Manchester City take on West Ham, and Wolves play Brentford — a time slot that usually delivers drama because so many games swing at once. Later at 18:30, Tottenham vs Liverpool looks like the headline clash, with both teams expected to play brave, attacking football.
Saturday night finishes with two games at 21:00: Everton vs Arsenal and Leeds vs Crystal Palace. Arsenal will want to avoid slipping points away from home, while Leeds and Palace feels like a match where momentum can flip quickly.
On Sunday at 17:30, Aston Villa welcome Manchester United in a match that often becomes a tactical fight in midfield. The round concludes on Monday at 21:00 with Fulham vs Nottingham, a fixture where every point matters for teams trying to stay clear of trouble and build a steady run.
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Newcastle vs Chelsea
Newcastle is in 12th place, having earned 22 points so far. The team has a clear and intense style with high pressing and direct attacks, which is reflected in their solid goal difference of 21:20. Their gameplay relies on physical dominance and quick transitions, with Bruno Guimaraes being key in controlling the midfield, while Gordon and Barnes bring energy and dynamism to the offense. Their form is good, with several important wins and consistent performances at home. At “St. James’ Park,” Newcastle has five wins, one draw, and two losses after playing 8 matches, with a goal difference of 14:10, highlighting their aggressiveness and ability to set the pace in front of their fans. They play efficient matches, and in 7 out of the last 8 games across all competitions, there have been at least three goals scored.
Chelsea is in 4th place with 28 points so far, just two points ahead of 5th place Crystal Palace. The team shows a technically precise style of play, focusing on possession and quick ball movement between the lines, with a goal difference of 27:15. Their attack is diverse and flexible, with Pedro Neto and Joao Pedro bringing directness, while Enzo Fernandez and Caicedo provide balance and control in the midfield. Overall, their form is stable, although there are fluctuations against tougher opponents. Away from home, Chelsea has 4 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses from 8 matches, with a goal difference of 15:8, showing that the team knows how to play well even outside of ‘Stamford Bridge’.
The match promises high intensity and a duel between two teams with different approaches. Newcastle will try to impose a physical rhythm and directness, while Chelsea will seek control through possession and technical superiority. The open style from both sides creates conditions for a dynamic match with chances at both ends.
GG (BTTS-Yes)
Predicted CS: 2:2
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Bournemouth vs Burnley
Bournemouth is in 13th place, having earned 21 points so far. The team plays with a strong offensive approach and high intensity, which is reflected in their goal difference of 25:28, often resulting in matches with many goals. Their style relies on quick transitions, width on the wings, and aggressive pressing, with Semenyo being the most consistent offensive threat, while Kroupi and Marcus Tavernier add creativity and movement between the lines. Their form isn’t at the needed level, with several draws and losses in a row, but the team shows the ability to create chances even against stronger opponents. At home, Bournemouth has 4 wins, 3 draws, and 1 loss after 8 matches, with a goal difference of 10:5, indicating solid stability and better defensive discipline in front of their fans.
Burnley is currently in 19th place, having only earned 10 points so far, which puts them in the relegation zone. If they don’t improve their performance, it’s very likely they will face relegation from the league. The team is experiencing a serious scoring crisis, with a goal difference of 18:33, clearly showing their issues in both defense and offense. Their gameplay often relies on a defensive setup and attempts at direct attacks, but they lack sufficient support and consistency in their offense.
Anthony and Foster are among the more active players, but as a team, they struggle to create chances. Their form is poor, with 7 consecutive losses leading to a drop in confidence. On away grounds, Burnley has only one win, which is their only victory this season, along with 7 losses in 8 matches, resulting in a goal difference of 11:23. This indicates a serious vulnerability when under constant pressure.
Considering their current form, home performance, and offensive potential, Bournemouth enters the match with a clear advantage. Burnley will likely try to tighten up their game, but it will be hard for them to withstand continuous pressure. The match suggests a dominant performance from the home team with real chances for more goals.
1 (Bournemouth to Win)
Predicted CS: 2:0
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Brighton vs Sunderland
Brighton is currently in 10th place with 23 points and plays a recognizable, offensive style of football that has a high intensity and focuses on possession and quick ball movement. The goal difference of 25:23 indicates that their matches are open and dynamic, where the team often creates chances but also leaves space for their opponents. In attack, the biggest threats are Welbeck, Gomez, and Rutter, who bring a mix of experience, speed, and directness. Their form has been inconsistent, as they haven’t won in the last three matches, but at home, Brighton is much stronger. After 8 games, they have 4 wins, 3 draws, and only 1 loss, with a goal difference of 16:11. This shows that the team has stability in front of their fans and knows how to set the pace against different types of opponents.
Sunderland is in 8th place with 26 points, but their form is unstable and varies a lot from game to game. They can play well against stronger opponents, but sometimes they underperform when it’s least expected. The team plays energetically and directly, with a lot of running and a focus on quick transitions. However, they struggle against teams that control the midfield well. Their goal difference of 19:17 shows they are solid, but not dominant in their efficiency. Key players in attack are Isidor, Brobbey, and Enzo Le Fee, but their creativity often relies on individual efforts. When playing away, Sunderland has two wins, two draws, and four losses, with a poor goal difference of 4:10, indicating difficulties in scoring and defending under continuous pressure.
Considering Brighton’s home performance, their better technical control, and Sunderland’s weak away efficiency, the advantage clearly lies with the home team. Brighton should dictate the game, while Sunderland will focus on defending and looking for counter-attack opportunities.
1 (Brighton to Win)
Predicted CS: 2:1
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Manchester City vs West Ham
Manchester City is in second place with 34 points after 16 matches and once again looks like a team that has complete control over their games, especially at home. They have just two points less than Arsenal. Their form is really strong, with a series of wins and an impressive goal difference of 38:16, which clearly shows their dominance both in attack and possession. City’s style of play is based on long possession, positional attacks, and constant pressure, with quick player rotations. Erling Haaland is the star in finishing with 17 goals scored, while Foden and Reijnders add creativity and depth. At home, City has 7 wins out of 8 matches and a goal difference of 22:6, indicating absolute stability and rare defensive mistakes.
West Ham is in 18th place with only 13 points, in the relegation zone, and they are entering this match with serious issues regarding their form and confidence. Their performance has been weak, with a series of draws and losses, and a goal difference of 19:32 shows that the team is conceding too many goals, especially against attacking teams. Tactically, West Ham tries to use a lower block and direct transitions, but they often struggle to get the ball out. Bowen is their biggest offensive threat, while Paqueta is trying to bring in creativity, but under pressure from strong opponents, the team finds it hard to maintain control. Away from home, West Ham has one win, four draws, and three losses, with a goal difference of 9:12, indicating vulnerability against technically superior teams.
Considering their form, quality, and home performance, Manchester City enters as a clear favorite. West Ham will likely focus on defense, but it will be tough for them to withstand prolonged pressure. City is expected to dominate and win with more chances created.
1 & T1 2+ (City to Win & Over1.5)
Predicted CS: 3:0
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Wolves vs Brentford
Wolves are currently in 20th place with only 2 points after 16 matches, and they are facing a serious crisis both in their results and mentally. Given their performance so far, it seems very likely that they will be ranked lower next season. The team has a goal difference of 9:35, which clearly shows their issues in both defense and offense. Their gameplay often appears disorganized, with weak connections between the lines and frequent lapses in concentration on defense. Although they try to build attacks through possession, Wolves often lose the ball in the midfield, leaving space for the opposing team to counterattack. Hwang and Larsen are among the more active players, but they lack sufficient support and consistency. At home, their record shows one draw and seven losses, with a goal difference of 7:21. They are still without a win this season, totaling 14 losses and two draws overall.
Brentford is in 15th place with 20 points, and even though they aren’t in great shape, they seem more competitive and organized than the home team. Their goal difference of 22:25 shows that the team can be dangerous in attack, but they also struggle in defense, especially under pressure. Their style of play relies on direct attacks, physical play, and using space behind the opponent’s defense. Thiago and Ouattara are the main offensive threats, with good support from the midfield. Their form is weak, with several losses in a row, but unlike the home team, Brentford at least shows some structure and ideas in their game. On the road, they have one win and seven losses, which isn’t encouraging, but against an opponent in such a crisis, that might be less important.
Considering the poor form and weak home record of Wolves, Brentford comes in with a real chance to get a positive result. The match promises to be a close battle, the guests seem more stable, but goals shouldn’t be missing in this game.
3+ (Over 2.5)
Predicted CS: 1:2
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Tottenham vs Liverpool
Tottenham is currently in 11th place with 22 points and is entering this match with an unstable form and clear tactical fluctuations. The team plays an offensive style of football with high defensive risks, which is evident from their goal difference of 25:21. At home, Spurs have two wins, two draws, and four losses, showing that despite their brave play, they often leave too much space behind their last line. The attack relies on Richarlison, who has scored 6 goals so far, while Kudus and Van de Ven add dynamism and creativity. However, the issues with organization during the transition to defense are constant. Against teams that play quickly and dominate the midfield, they struggle to control the pace and easily make defensive mistakes.
Liverpool is currently in 7th place with 26 points and comes with a much more stable structure and better control of the matches. Even though their away form isn’t perfect, they have managed to find balance recently and haven’t lost in their last 4 games, with two wins and two draws. The team shows maturity and the ability to adapt tactically. Their goal difference of 26:24 indicates an effective attack led by Mohamed Salah, while Ekitike and Gakpo add depth and variety to the offense. Liverpool is dangerous with their high pressing, allowing them to punish any mistakes in the opponent’s defense. Against teams like Tottenham, who play openly, Liverpool often finds space between the lines.
Considering the style of both teams, the match promises a high tempo and open play. Tottenham will try to set the pace at home, but Liverpool has the advantage in tactical discipline and a more stable midfield. We expect a dynamic match with at least three goals during the game.
3+ (Over 2.5)
Predicted CS: 1:2
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Everton vs Arsenal
Everton is currently in 9th place with 24 points and has a fairly stable season, especially when playing at home. The team is known for its disciplined tactical setup, solid defense, and clear focus on transitions after winning the ball back. The goal difference of 18:19 shows a limited but effective attack, and a team that rarely engages in open play. Everton often plays with a lower block, trying to maintain their structure and reduce the space between the lines. In attack, McNeil and Jack Grealish play key roles with their individual runs and crosses, while Gueye adds extra stability in the midfield. Their form can be inconsistent, but at Goodison Park, the team displays greater fighting spirit, better focus, and the ability to compete against favored opponents.
Arsenal is at the top of the table with 36 points, just two points ahead of Manchester City, and right now they seem like the most complete team in the league. With a goal difference of 30:10, the team shows a high level of efficiency in attack and exceptional defensive security. Their play is based on high possession, quick ball circulation, and aggressive pressing right after losing the ball. Bukayo Saka, Trossard, Gyokeres, and Declan Rice are the driving force of the offensive game, constantly moving between the lines. Arsenal knows how to control the pace, even against teams that defend deeply, patiently building attacks until they find space.
Although they sometimes play with lower intensity away from home, the team rarely loses its tactical balance. Overall, after 16 matches played this season, they have achieved 11 wins, drawn three times, and only lost twice. They are also dominating in the group stage of the Champions League.
Considering their form, quality, and consistency, Arsenal enters as the favorite. Everton will try to slow down the game and defend compactly, but it will be hard for them to withstand prolonged pressure.
2 (Arsenal to Win)
Predicted CS: 0:2
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Leeds vs Crystal Palace
Leeds is currently in 17th place with 16 points, just above the relegation zone, and they are entering this match under pressure but with a clear goal to take advantage of their home field. The team plays at a fast pace, but they struggle with their defense organization and controlling the tempo of the game. The goal difference of 20:30 shows this, as they can create chances but are also vulnerable during the opponent’s transitions. In offense, Calvert-Lewin is the most consistent player, while Nmecha and Stach bring energy from the sidelines. Their form is unstable, with a mix of draws, losses, and one win in their last seven matches, indicating a lack of consistency. At home, Leeds has three wins, three draws, and two losses, showing that the team can be competitive in front of their fans, especially when they set the pace right from the start.
Crystal Palace is in 5th place with 26 points and comes in with a much more secure structure and better current form. They are fighting to be among the top 4 teams in the league to qualify for the most prestigious European competition. The team plays balanced, with a strong midfield block, patient build-up of attacks, and good control of the space between the lines. The goal difference of 20:15 shows efficiency without taking too many risks, and a key player is Jean-Philippe Mateta with 7 goals scored so far, supported by Sarr and Lerma who bring creativity. The form is positive, with a series of wins and stable performances, including away games where they have five wins, one draw, and only two losses after playing 8 matches. The team looks mature, tactically disciplined, and capable of punishing any mistakes, especially against teams that play openly and with high risk like Leeds.
Crystal Palace enters with better form, but the match won’t be easy. Leeds will try to impose intensity and pressure, while the visitors will wait for space to counter-attack. A tactical battle is expected with chances on both sides, but with a slight advantage for the more consistent team.
X2 (Draw or Crystal Palace to Win)
Predicted CS: 1:2
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Aston Villa vs Manchester Utd
Aston Villa is in 3rd place with 33 points so far, and considering how well they are playing, we might expect them to win the title. Unai Emery’s team is in great form and stands out with a balanced yet very effective style, which is shown by their goal difference of 25:17. Villa combines organized possession with quick vertical attacks, a high line, and well-coordinated pressing, especially at home. The creative trio of Rogers, Buendia, and Malen constantly poses a threat to opponents, while Cash and the full-backs actively join the attack. The team is consistently strong, with 9 consecutive wins across all competitions and clear confidence. At home, they have 6 wins, 1 draw, and only 1 loss after 8 matches, with a goal difference of 13:6, which confirms their tactical discipline and ability to control the pace and score.
Manchester Utd is in 7th place with 26 points so far, and they have managed to improve their form recently, remaining unbeaten in their last 4 matches, which include two wins and two draws. The team is having a decent but inconsistent season, with a goal difference of 30:26, indicating offensive potential but also defensive fluctuations. Their gameplay often relies on individual talent and quick transitions, with Bruno Fernandes and Mount being key players in creating chances, while Mbeumo and Cunha add energy to the attack.
Their form is variable, featuring wins but also a few slip-ups against direct rivals, which affects their consistency. Away from home, United has three wins, three draws, and two losses after 8 matches, with a goal difference of 14:14, showing that the team can be dangerous but often allows opponents to set the pace. They have not lost away in their last 5 matches.
Considering their current form, home performance, and tactical stability, Aston Villa enters this match with an advantage. Manchester United has the individual quality to pose a threat, but if Villa can establish control and intensity, they have a real chance of achieving a positive result.
1 (Aston Villa to Win)
Predicted CS: 2:1
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Fulham vs Nottingham
Fulham is currently in 14th place with 20 points after 16 matches, showing a mixed but generally competitive season. The team plays with a clear structure when they have the ball, combining patient build-up play with quick attacks down the wings. Their home ground is a significant advantage, where they have achieved 4 wins, 1 draw, and 3 losses, with a goal difference of 14:10. This indicates solid offensive production and relative defensive stability. In attack, Chukwueze and Alex Iwobi stand out, bringing creativity and directness, while Harry Wilson is the most effective player on the team with 5 goals and 3 assists. Their form is unstable, with a mix of wins and losses, but Fulham shows that they can respond well against teams of similar or lower quality, especially when they control the pace of the game.
Nottingham Forest is currently in 16th place with 18 points, which is two points less than their opponent today, and they are heading into the match with clear issues when playing away. As a visiting team, they have two wins, two draws, and four losses, resulting in a negative goal difference of 6:12, which clearly shows their struggles under constant pressure. Their gameplay usually relies on a lower defensive line and attempts at quick counterattacks, but the transitions are not always effective enough. Gibbs-White and Hudson-Odoi are the main offensive players from the midfield, but their reliance on individual solutions is quite obvious. Their form is inconsistent, with both wins and poor performances away from home, and defensive mistakes often cost them dearly in matches where they lack full control.
Considering their home performance, greater stability in their gameplay, and better balance between attack and defense, Fulham enters the match with a slight advantage. Nottingham will try to tighten up their game and capitalize on counterattacks.
1X (Draw or Fulham to Win)
Predicted CS: 1:1
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Insights from Premier League Matchweek 16 predictions provide useful background when comparing how teams have progressed between rounds. Looking ahead, upcoming fixtures will be covered in Premier League Matchweek 18 predictions as the season continues.