Soccer
Next Week, Premier League Matchweek 36 Preview: Final Stretch Drama Unfolds
As the 2024/25 Premier League season enters its final stretch, Matchday 36 brings title battles, relegation drama, and must-win fixtures. See all predictions, match dates, and key talking points in our in-depth preview.
As the 2024/25 Premier League season nears its thrilling conclusion, Matchday 36 is packed with high-stakes clashes, survival battles, and a title-deciding blockbuster. With just three rounds to go, every game could shift the dynamics of the table, whether it’s at the summit, the hunt for Europe, or the dreaded relegation zone.
Fans will be treated to a 12-game spread over the week, kicking off with a Monday night fixture and culminating in a Sunday showdown that could determine the title race.
Fixture Predictions: Matchday 36 at a Glance
Here’s a full breakdown of next week’s games, including dates, teams, and our hypothetical match predictions:
| Match Date | Fixture | Prediction |
|---|---|---|
| Mon, May 5 | Crystal Palace vs Nottm Forest | 2-1 Palace |
| Sat, May 10 | Southampton vs Man City | 0-3 Man City |
| Sat, May 10 | Fulham vs Everton | 1-1 Draw |
| Sat, May 10 | Wolves vs Brighton | 1-2 Brighton |
| Sat, May 10 | Ipswich Town vs Brentford | 0-2 Brentford |
| Sat, May 10 | Bournemouth vs Aston Villa | 2-2 Draw |
| Sun, May 11 | Newcastle vs Chelsea | 1-3 Chelsea |
| Sun, May 11 | Man United vs West Ham | 2-1 United |
| Sun, May 11 | Nottm Forest vs Leicester City | 1-2 Leicester |
| Sun, May 11 | Tottenham vs Crystal Palace | 3-1 Spurs |
| Sun, May 11 | Liverpool vs Arsenal | 2-2 Draw |
Key Storylines to Watch
Liverpool vs Arsenal – Title Race Showdown
This may be the biggest fixture of the week, and potentially of the season. With Arsenal and Liverpool neck-and-neck in the title race, their Sunday night clash at Anfield is likely to be a six-pointer. A draw could benefit Manchester City, while a win for either side could give them the edge heading into the final two weeks.
Relegation Scrap Heats Up
Clubs like Nottingham Forest, Everton, and Southampton are teetering dangerously close to the drop zone. Forest faces two matches this week, including a tricky one against Crystal Palace and a crucial bottom-half battle with Leicester City. Points are non-negotiable now.
Can Aston Villa Lock in Europe?
Villa has been one of this season’s surprise packages. Their clash with Bournemouth, away from home, will be a good test of their depth and mentality as they chase a top-six finish.
Chelsea Surges Too Late?
Chelsea’s upturn in form has fans wondering, “What if?” Their trip to St. James’ Park against Newcastle won’t be easy, but it could push them closer to a European spot, assuming other results go their way.
Players to Watch
- Erling Haaland (Man City): Expected to feast on struggling Southampton.
- Mohamed Salah (Liverpool): Arsenal’s high line could leave him space to strike.
- James Maddison (Tottenham): His creativity will be key against Crystal Palace.
- Enzo Fernandez (Chelsea): Starting to control midfield with class and composure.
Final Thoughts
This is the business end of the Premier League, and every point counts more than ever. Whether it’s the final push for European qualification or survival at the bottom, Matchweek 36 is shaping up to be one of the most consequential of the season.
Don’t blink, one result could change everything.