Liverpool can move one step closer to the Premier League title when they face Fulham on Sunday. The Reds, currently sitting atop the league, are 12 points clear of second-placed Arsenal with just eight matches remaining. Their recent 1-0 win over Everton in the Merseyside derby, courtesy of Diogo Jota’s goal, solidified their position at the top after a tough stretch that included a Champions League exit and a League Cup loss.
Virgil van Dijk has urged his teammates to outwork the teams that remain in their path if they are to secure a record-equalling 20th English title. Despite recent doubts surrounding their form after disappointing defeats in European and domestic competitions, Liverpool remains confident in their pursuit of the championship. With the league now in its final stages, Van Dijk emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and not underestimating any opponent. Liverpool’s next challenge is Fulham, a team they will look to dispatch to maintain their momentum.
Meanwhile, Manchester City will also be looking to strengthen their position in the top four when they meet arch-rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford. City, who are battling to qualify for next season’s Champions League, will be without star striker Erling Haaland for several weeks due to an ankle injury. However, winger Jack Grealish is ready to step up after scoring his first Premier League goal since 2023 in City’s 2-0 win over Leicester. Grealish has endured a frustrating season, battling both form and fitness issues, but he is eager to make an impact in the crucial Manchester derby.
City’s previous meeting with United ended in a 2-1 loss at home, with two late goals from United securing the win. Grealish is determined to get revenge and help his side secure an important three points. “We’re going there on the back of two wins and with a lot of confidence,” Grealish said, expressing his optimism for the derby. The outcome of this match could have significant implications for both teams as they chase their respective goals, with City fighting for Champions League qualification and United trying to secure a top-four finish.
At the other end of the table, Southampton are on the brink of relegation, with their survival hopes dwindling rapidly. The Saints are 19 points adrift of safety and face a must-win game against Tottenham on Sunday. If they lose and Wolves secure a victory against Ipswich, Southampton will be relegated with seven matches still to play, making them the first team to face relegation this season. The club’s poor form throughout the campaign has left them with little room for error, and despite their best efforts, they are on course to match the Premier League’s lowest points tally set by Derby in 2007-08.
Defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis remains determined to fight until the end. “We just wanted to put a performance in at home that people can be proud of,” he said. However, Southampton’s lack of quality throughout the season has led to their difficult position, and with just a few matches left, the likelihood of their survival grows slimmer by the day.
The weekend’s action also includes several other intriguing fixtures. Everton will host Arsenal on Saturday morning, while Crystal Palace will take on Brighton in a battle of mid-table teams. Ipswich and Wolves will face off, with Wolves looking to continue their strong run. West Ham will play Bournemouth, and Aston Villa will host Nottingham Forest. On Sunday, Chelsea travels to Brentford, while Tottenham hosts Southampton. The Manchester derby between United and City is set to be the highlight of the weekend, and Leicester will host Newcastle on Monday night.
As the season draws to a close, every match carries immense importance, whether it’s for the title, Champions League spots, or survival in the Premier League.
