Manchester United host Liverpool in a high-stakes rivalry, while Arsenal look to extend their lead at the top.
DUBAI – With only four matchweeks remaining, the Premier League enters its final month with high drama at both ends of the table. Matchweek 35 is headlined by a historic showdown at Old Trafford, where a resurgent Manchester United host a Liverpool side missing their talisman, Mohamed Salah. Meanwhile, the title race heats up as Arsenal prepare for a tricky London derby against Fulham, hoping to pile pressure on defending champions Manchester City.
The Headline Act: United vs. Liverpool
The weekend’s marquee fixture sees Manchester United welcome long-standing rivals Liverpool on Sunday, May 3. Under the stewardship of Michael Carrick, the Red Devils have undergone a tactical transformation, firmly cementing their place in the top three. A victory for United would not only secure local bragging rights but also solidify their lead in the race for a Champions League spot.
Liverpool, currently fourth, arrive with confidence following back-to-back wins over Crystal Palace and Everton. However, they face a significant hurdle: Mohamed Salah is ruled out with a hamstring injury. In his absence, the spotlight shifts to Swedish forward Alexander Isak, who scored his first goal since returning from a long-term injury last weekend. The Reds will need Isak to replicate Salah’s historical dominance at Old Trafford if they are to leapfrog United.
Arsenal’s Title Charge
At the summit, Arsenal face Fulham at the Emirates. Following a grueling Champions League semi-final against Atletico Madrid, Mikel Arteta’s squad is battling fatigue and fitness concerns over Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz. Despite this, the Gunners boast an incredible record—they have never lost a home league game to Fulham in 32 attempts. A win would move Arsenal six points clear of Manchester City, albeit having played two extra games, creating a massive psychological hurdle for Pep Guardiola’s men.
The Survival Struggle
The battle to avoid the drop remains frantic. Leeds United host a relegated Burnley on Friday night, knowing a win could virtually guarantee their safety. Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur, currently 18th, face a daunting trip to Aston Villa. Despite Roberto De Zerbi securing his first win as Spurs boss last weekend, the North London side remains in the relegation zone, needing a near-miracle in the final four games to avoid the drop.
Predictions and Key Fixtures
In the mid-table, an in-form Bournemouth—unbeaten in 15 matches—looks to continue their European push against a Crystal Palace side distracted by their Europa Conference League semi-finals. Elsewhere, Manchester City face a potential “banana skin” on Monday night as they visit David Moyes’ disciplined Everton side.
Expert Score Predictions (Selected):
- Manchester United vs. Liverpool: 2-2
- Arsenal vs. Fulham: 1-0
- Everton vs. Manchester City: 1-3
- Leeds vs. Burnley: 3-1
As the curtain begins to fall on the 2025/26 season, Matchweek 35 promises to be a defining chapter in one of the most unpredictable campaigns in recent memory.
