Matchweek 19 of the 2025/26 Premier League season (from December 30 to January 1) really feels like a big New Year turning point, where having energy is just as important as being fresh. With teams still dealing with tired players and making changes, this round can quickly change the race for the top four and the teams in the middle of the table. As part of the broader Premier League predictions, this match is assessed alongside other fixtures from the same round.
It kicks off on Tuesday at 20:30 with a bunch of exciting matches: Burnley vs Newcastle, Chelsea vs Bournemouth, Nottingham vs Everton, and West Ham vs Brighton all start at the same time. These games happening together usually cause quick changes in the live standings, especially when teams score early and have to go for it.
Later that night at 21:15, Arsenal vs Aston Villa and Manchester United vs Wolves bring a more tactical feel — these games are where pressing hard, staying disciplined, and managing the game can make a big difference.
New Year’s Day wraps it all up. At 18:30, Crystal Palace vs Fulham and Liverpool vs Leeds set the mood for the evening, with both home teams likely trying to control the game and avoid risky plays. Then at 21:00, Brentford vs Tottenham and Sunderland vs Manchester City finish off the matchweek, where speed, set pieces, and staying calm in the final moments can really matter when players are tired.
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Burnley vs Newcastle
Burnley is currently in 18th place with 12 points after playing 18 matches, and they are in the relegation zone. The team has achieved three wins, three draws, and 12 losses, with a goal difference of 19:34, which clearly shows issues in both offense and defense. Their form is weak, with a series of losses and few positive results, and their confidence is low. Offensively, they struggle to maintain constant pressure and often rely on individual efforts, while the defense is unstable and easily allows goals, especially under high intensity.
Key players include Flemming, Anthony, and Ugochukwu, who are among the few with notable performances. In today’s match, they will be without Tuanzebe and Foster, who are participating in the African Cup of Nations. At home, they have a modest record with two wins, two draws, and five losses, and a goal difference of 7:10. Their style of play is mostly reactive, with a lower block and attempts for quick transitions, but they lack sufficient efficiency.
Newcastle is currently in 14th place with 23 points after playing 18 matches, and they have a much better position, even though the season has had its ups and downs. They have achieved 6 wins, 5 draws, and 7 losses, with an equal goal difference of 23:23, which shows they lack consistency. Their form is variable, with good performances against weaker opponents, but they also struggle in tougher matches. Offensively, Newcastle has more quality and depth, especially with players like Isak, Bruno Guimaraes, and Barnes, but defensively they can be vulnerable to quick counterattacks.
When playing away, they have only managed one win, three draws, and five losses, with a goal difference of 7:11. Their style of play is more offensive, with more possession and an aggressive approach, but it often leaves space behind. In the last round, they were defeated by Manchester Utd, but before that, they played an excellent match and drew with Manchester Utd.
Newcastle has an advantage in quality and offensive potential, but Burnley at home will try to play tough and avoid defeat. A close match is expected, and both teams will likely take a cautious approach, but we anticipate the visitors will secure three points in this game.
2 (Newcastle to Win)
Predicted CS: 1:2
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Chelsea vs Bournemouth
Chelsea is currently in 5th place with 29 points after playing 18 matches and is still in the running for spots that lead to European competitions. They have achieved 8 wins, 5 draws, and 5 losses, with a goal difference of 30:19, indicating a solid season, although with some ups and downs. Their form has been inconsistent, featuring a mix of wins, draws, and losses in recent matches. Offensively, they have quality and depth, creating many chances, but they aren’t always as efficient as they could be. Defensively, they are generally stable, but can sometimes crack under pressure.
Key players include Joao Pedro, Neto, and Enzo Fernandez, who bring creativity, dynamism, and goals from the midfield. At home, they have a record of 4 wins, 2 draws, and 3 losses with a goal difference of 13:9, showing a solid but not dominant form. Their style of play is based on possession, a high tempo, and an attacking setup, with attempts to control the match.
Bournemouth is currently in 15th place with 22 points after playing 18 matches. They are 9 points above the relegation zone and are not under much pressure. The team has achieved five wins, seven draws, and six losses, with a goal difference of 27:33, indicating that their matches are open and they have defensive weaknesses. Their form is unstable, with several draws and losses against stronger opponents, and they haven’t won in their last nine games. Offensively, Bournemouth can be dangerous and score goals, but defensively, they often leave gaps and concede goals in a row. Key players include Semenyo, Kroupi, and Tavernier, who are the main threats in attack and are responsible for creativity.
Away from home, their performance is poor, with one win, three draws, and five losses, and a goal difference of 16:27, showing their vulnerability on the road. Their style of play is direct and energetic, with quick attacks, but often lacks enough defensive balance. After playing nine away matches, they have conceded 27 goals, which means they allow an average of three goals per game.
Chelsea has the advantage in quality, depth, and home ground, while Bournemouth will try to respond with an open game and transitions. A dynamic match is expected.
1 & 3+ (Chelsea to Win & Over2.5)
Predicted CS: 3:1
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Nottingham vs Everton
Nottingham is currently in 17th place with 18 points earned from 18 matches played and is in a direct fight for survival, sitting just above the relegation zone. They have achieved five wins, three draws, and 10 losses, with a goal difference of 18:28, indicating a challenging season with frequent defensive weaknesses. Their form is unstable, and they haven’t won in the last three matches, although they can occasionally play solid games against stronger opponents. Offensively, Nottingham has limited effectiveness and often relies on individual efforts, while their defense is vulnerable, especially against organized attacks.
Key players like Gibbs-White, Hudson-Odoi, and Sangare will not participate in this match due to their involvement in AFCON; they bring creativity and energy but lack consistency. At home, their performance is poor, with three wins, one draw, and five losses, resulting in a goal difference of 12:15. Their style of play is reactive, featuring a lower block and attempts at quick transitions.
Everton is currently in 12th place with 25 points earned from 18 matches, maintaining a relatively stable position in the middle of the table. However, they haven’t won in three games, suffering two losses. The team has achieved 7 wins, 4 draws, and 7 losses, with a goal difference of 18:20, indicating a balanced but not dominant performance. Their form is inconsistent, showing good results against direct rivals but also losses to teams from the upper part of the table. Offensively, Everton isn’t very productive, but they can be practical, while defensively they are much more organized than their opponents.
Key players include Dewsbury-Hall, Ndiaye, and Grealish, who bring creativity and threat from the back. A major setback for the team will be the absence of Ndiaye and Gueye, who have national team duties. Away from home, they have three wins, two draws, and four losses with a goal difference of 7:10, showing solid competitiveness. Their playing style is disciplined, with a clear structure and a focus on results.
The two teams are close in quality, but Everton appears more consistent and organized. Nottingham will have the initiative at home, while the visitors will wait for their chances in transition. A close and tough match is expected.
X2 (Draw or Everton to Win)
Predicted CS: 1:1
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West Ham vs Brighton
West Ham is currently in 18th place with 13 points after playing 18 matches and is fighting to avoid relegation. The team has a record of three wins, four draws, and eleven losses, with a poor goal difference of 19:36, which clearly shows their problems, especially in defense. Their form is negative, with a series of losses and only a few positive results, and their confidence is low. Offensively, West Ham can create chances, but their finishing is inconsistent, while defensively they often crumble under pressure and concede goals in bunches.
Key players include Bowen, Wilson, and Lucas Paqueta, who bring individual quality, but they lack sufficient support from the team. At home, they have a weak record of two wins and seven losses, with a goal difference of 10:21. Their style of play is unbalanced, with attempts to attack but without a solid defensive structure. Additionally, for today’s match, they will be without Diouf and Wan-Bissaka, who are participating in the African Cup of Nations.
Brighton is currently in 13th place with 24 points after 18 matches, and they have a much safer position on the table. They have achieved 6 wins, 6 draws, and 6 losses, with a goal difference of 26:25, indicating a balanced but not consistent season. Their form is variable, showing good performances but also losses against top teams. Offensively, Brighton plays solidly and creates many chances through quick combinations, while their defense is generally more reliable than the home team’s, although it can be vulnerable to set pieces.
Key players include Welbeck, van Hecke, and Gomez, who play important roles in attack and transition. Away from home, they have a record of two wins, two draws, and five losses with a goal difference of 10:14, showing some instability but also competitiveness. Their style of play is offensive and dynamic, with high intensity and fast attacks. In this match, they will additionally be without Carlos Baleba, who is part of the national team for the Nations Cup.
West Ham will try to set the pace at home and cannot afford to drop points if they want to escape the danger zone, while Brighton will play their game with possession and transition. An open match is expected with chances on both sides and at least one goal from each team.
GG (BTTS-Yes)
Predicted CS: 1:2
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Arsenal vs Aston Villa
Arsenal is in first place with 42 points after playing 18 matches, confirming their role as the most consistent team in the league. So far, they have achieved 13 wins, three draws, and two losses, with an impressive goal difference of 33:11, highlighting their dominance in both offense and defense. Their form is extremely strong, with a series of victories and minimal fluctuations, and the team appears confident and mature. Offensively, Arsenal is diverse and efficient, maintaining a high intensity and constant pressure, while their defense is among the toughest in the league.
Key players include Gyokeres, Saka, Trossard, and Eze, who contribute goals, creativity, and depth. At home, they have an impressive record of 8 wins and a draw, with a goal difference of 22:4, making them exceptionally dominant. Their style of play is based on high possession, quick combinations, and aggressive pressing.
Aston Villa is currently in 3rd place with 39 points after 18 matches, and they are having a great season overall. They are just three points behind today’s opponent. The team has a record of 12 wins, three draws, and three losses, with a goal difference of 29:19, showing a balanced and effective style of play. Their form is really good, with 11 consecutive wins, including three victories in the Europa League.Offensively, Villa plays directly and dangerously, especially through players like Watkins, Rogers, Buendia, and Malen.
Defensively, they are organized, although they sometimes leave space against teams with strong possession. Away from home, they have a solid record of five wins, two draws, and two losses, with a goal difference of 14:12, which shows maturity and competitiveness. Their style of play is dynamic, with quick transitions and high efficiency in finishing. In this match, they will be without defender Matty Cash, who is suspended due to accumulated yellow cards, and without forward Guessand, who is participating in AFCON.
Arsenal will take control and set the pace, while Aston Villa will look for their chances through quick transitions and direct attacks. We expect a high-quality and intense match, giving the home team the edge to win, but we anticipate at least three goals during the game.
3+ (Over 2.5)
Predicted CS: 2:1
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Manchester Utd vs Wolves
Manchester Utd is currently in 6th place with 29 points after playing 18 matches and is fighting for European spots. The team has a record of 8 wins, 5 draws, and 5 losses, with a goal difference of 32:28, showing they have offensive potential but also some defensive instability. Their form is inconsistent, with wins at home but also ups and downs against stronger opponents. Offensively, United creates a lot of chances and plays with high intensity, but they can lose control at certain times during the match, while the defense often leaves space open.
Key players include Mbeumo, Bruno Fernandes, and Casemiro, who bring goals, creativity, and balance to the midfield. At home, they have a solid record of 5 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses, with a goal difference of 17:12, making them favorites in such matches. Their style of play is offensive, with high pressing and a direct approach to the goal. In this match, they will also be without Diallo, Mazraoui, and Mbeumo, who are participating in the African Cup of Nations.
Wolves are currently in 20th place with only 2 points after 18 matches and are facing a serious crisis, still without a win this season. The team has a record of two draws and 16 losses, with a terrible goal difference of 10:39, clearly showing problems in all areas. Their form is extremely poor, with a long streak of losses and no signs of improvement. Offensively, Wolves hardly create any threats, scoring very few goals, while their defense is the weakest in the league and often collapses under pressure.
Key players include Bueno and Krejci, but their individual performances are limited in this context. On the road, they have one draw and 8 losses, with a goal difference of 3:16, further highlighting their struggles. Their style of play is defensive and reactive, but lacks structure and control. In addition to injuries, they will also be without midfielder Andre, who is suspended due to accumulated yellow cards, while Agbadou and Chirewa are part of AFCON.
Manchester Utd has a big advantage in quality, form, and home ground, while Wolves will try to defend deeply and avoid a big loss. The home team is expected to dominate completely and win by at least two goals.
1 & T1 2+ (Manchester Utd to Win & Over1.5)
Predicted CS: 3:0
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Crystal Palace vs Fulham
Crystal Palace is currently in 9th place with 26 points after playing 18 matches, and they have a decent spot in the middle of the table, even though they have suffered three consecutive losses. Their record shows 7 wins, 5 draws, and 6 losses, with a goal difference of 21:20, indicating a relatively balanced season. Their form has been inconsistent, with losses in recent games, but they also have periods of solid performances against direct rivals. Offensively, Palace isn’t extremely productive, but they can be effective when they find space, while their defense is generally organized, although it sometimes struggles under continuous pressure.
Key players include Mateta, who is the main attacking option, and Munoz and Sarr, who bring speed and energy on the wings. At home, their performance is moderate with two wins, 4 draws, and 3 losses, and a goal difference of 9:11, showing that the team can be tough but not dominant. Their style of play is disciplined, focusing on structure and quick transitions. In this match, they will also be without Ismaila Sarr, who is part of the Senegal national team.
Fulham is currently in 10th place with 26 points after 18 matches, showing a performance almost identical to that of the host team. The team has achieved 8 wins, 2 draws, and 8 losses, with a goal difference of 25:26, indicating an offensive focus but also some defensive weaknesses. Their form has been inconsistent, with victories in several recent games but also losses against better-organized teams. Offensively, Fulham plays directly and can create danger, especially through Wilson, Jimenez, and Smith Rowe, who are the main threats. Defensively, the team can be vulnerable, particularly when playing at a higher pace.
Away from home, their performance has been unstable with three wins, a draw, and five losses, and a goal difference of 10:16. The three victories were achieved in their last three away matches, which makes consistency on the road challenging. Their style of play is open and energetic, with attempts at quick attacks and high dynamics. In this match, they will additionally be without Bassey, Chukwueze, and Chukwueze, who is part of the Nigerian national team.
The two teams are close in quality and points, with similar ups and downs in their performance. Palace will look to control the game at home, while Fulham will play a more open style and focus on transitions. A balanced and exciting match is expected, with chances for both sides.
GG (BTTS-Yes)
Predicted CS: 1:1
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Liverpool vs Leeds
Liverpool is currently in 4th place with 32 points after playing 18 matches and is firmly in the race for the top. The team has achieved 10 wins, 2 draws, and 6 losses, with a goal difference of 30:26, showing a strong offense but also some occasional defensive weaknesses. Their form is positive, with several consecutive wins in the league and in the group stage of the Champions League, which boosts their confidence. Offensively, Liverpool plays intensely and creates many chances, but their finishing can be inconsistent, while the defense isn’t always stable under pressure.
Key players include Ekitike and Gakpo, who carry the main scoring and creative responsibilities. At home, they have a good record of 6 wins, 1 draw, and 2 losses, with a goal difference of 15:10, making them favorites. Their style of play is based on high pressing, a fast pace, and aggressive wing attacks. They will be without Mohamed Salah, who is part of the Egypt national team.
Leeds is currently in 16th place with 20 points earned from 18 matches, just above the relegation zone. The team has a record of five wins, five draws, and eight losses, with a negative goal difference of 25:32, indicating issues in their defensive organization. Their form is unstable, showing a mix of draws, wins, and losses, lacking clear consistency. Offensively, Leeds can be dangerous and direct, but they often struggle with efficiency, while their defense is vulnerable, especially against teams that dominate possession.
Key players include Calvert-Lewin, Nmecha, and Stach, who bring physical strength and a threat from the back. Their away performance is poor, with one win, two draws, and six losses, and a goal difference of 8:20, which is a serious handicap. The style of play is combative and direct, but with many fluctuations. Recently, they have improved their form and are unbeaten in the last five matches, with two wins and three draws.
Liverpool will control the game and apply constant pressure, while Leeds will try to defend deep and look for chances on the counter. The quality and home advantage are clearly on the side of the hosts.
1 (Liverpool to Win)
Predicted CS: 3:1
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Brentford vs Tottenham
Brentford is currently in 8th place with 26 points after playing 18 matches, and they are having a solid season with hopes of staying in the top half of the table. The team has a record of 8 wins, 2 draws, and 8 losses, with a goal difference of 28:26, which shows they play an attacking style and have open matches. Overall, their form is positive, with some important wins in the last few rounds, although they sometimes struggle against stronger opponents. Offensively, Brentford is direct and efficient, while their defense isn’t always stable under constant pressure.
Key players include Thiago, Schade, and Ouattara, who bring goals, speed, and aggression to the attack. At home, they have a strong record of 6 wins, 2 draws, and 1 loss, with a goal difference of 20:10, making them very dangerous in front of their fans. Their style of play is intense, featuring quick attacks and strong physical duels. In this match, they will additionally be without Ouattara and Onyeka, who are part of AFCON.
Tottenham is currently in 11th place with 25 points after 18 matches, and their season has been quite up and down. The team has achieved 7 wins, 4 draws, and 7 losses, with a goal difference of 27:23, showing they have a strong offense but need to improve their defense consistency. Their form is inconsistent, with alternating good and bad results, especially when playing away from home. Offensively, Tottenham has talent and knows how to create chances, but they often lose their rhythm at crucial moments, and their defense can struggle against aggressive teams.
Key players include Richarlison, van de Ven, and Kudus, who bring individual skill and energy to the team. When playing away, they have a mixed record of 5 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses, with a goal difference of 16:12, indicating they can be competitive even outside their home ground. Their style of play is attacking, with a fast pace and attempts to control the game through possession. The playing style is intense, featuring quick attacks and strong physical battles. In this match, they will additionally be without Pape Matar Sarr and Onyeka, who play for Senegal, and Bissouma, who represents Mali.
Brentford will try to impose physical intensity and a fast attack at home, while Tottenham will look for control and a more organized offense. An open match with chances for both sides is expected.
3+ (Over 2.5)
Predicted CS: 2:2
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Sunderland vs Manchester City
Sunderland is currently in 7th place with 28 points after playing 18 matches, and they are having a solid season beyond expectations. The team has achieved 7 wins, 7 draws, and 4 losses, with a goal difference of 20:18, indicating a good balance between offense and defense. Their form is strong, with few losses and many close matches. Offensively, Sunderland isn’t super efficient, but they play with discipline and patience, while defensively they are organized and compact.
Key players include Isidor, Le Fee, and Brobbey, who bring creativity and individual threat to the attack. At home, they have a strong record of five wins, 4 draws, and they are still unbeaten, with a goal difference of 16:8, showing that it’s tough to beat them in front of their fans. Their style of play is structured, focusing on controlling the tempo and transitions. In this match, they will also be without Chemsdine Talbi, Mandava, and Habib Diarra, who are part of AFCON.
Manchester City is currently in second place with 40 points after 18 matches and is one of the top contenders for the title. The team has an impressive record of 13 wins, 1 draw, and 4 losses, with a great goal difference of 43:17, which shows their dominance. Their form is very strong, with a winning streak in all competitions. They are known for having the best offense in the league, applying constant pressure and high efficiency, while their defense operates securely and organized.
Key players include Haaland, Foden, and Reijnders, who contribute goals, movement, and control in the midfield. Away from home, they have a solid record of five wins, 1 draw, and 3 losses, with a goal difference of 18:11, indicating they are dangerous even on the road. Their style of play is dominant, featuring high possession, positional attacks, and constant pressing. In this match, they will additionally be without Omar Marmoush, who is part of the Egypt national team, and Ait-Nouri, who plays for Algeria.
Sunderland will try to maintain their compactness and slow down the pace, while Manchester City will impose control and pressure from the start. The quality and depth are on the guests’ side, and we expect a dynamic match with at least three goals throughout the game.
3+ (Over 2.5)
Predicted CS: 1:2
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Insights from Premier League Matchweek 18 predictions provide useful background when comparing how teams have progressed between rounds. Analysis of the next round can be found in Premier League Matchweek 20 predictions, where fixtures are reviewed with updated context.