Five key fixtures in the Premier League this weekend | OneFootball

It is Easter weekend and the Premier League is back, with some massive games at both ends of the table. The run-in is officially upon us, as the pressure ramps up on sides at the top and bottom.

We look at some of the key fixtures to look out for…

Guardiola v Arteta is another crucial battle – Manchester City v Arsenal: Sunday 4:30pm

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The game of the weekend. Arsenal travel to Manchester City, just one point ahead of the hosts. Mikel Arteta got the better of Pep Guardiola earlier in the season with a narrow 1-0 win in north London. City have suffered injury scares during the international break, with both Kyle Walker and John Stones forced off with injury whilst on international duty for England. Kevin de Bruyne was not named in the Belgium squad either. As for Arsenal, Bukayo Saka withdrew from England’s squad as a precaution, as did Gabriel, whilst Martinelli is still out injured.

It is not quite a title decider, but the result could swing the momentum as these two sides do battle for the Premier League trophy for the second year running.

Score prediction: 1-1

Liverpool must sea-off the Gulls – Liverpool v Brighton: Sunday 2pm

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All three title contenders play on Sunday, with Liverpool first up as they host Brighton. The Seagulls are unbeaten against the Reds in their last four meetings, and have proved to be awkward opponents for Jurgen Klopp’s side. Liverpool can give themselves a huge psychological advantage in the early kick-off and go top of the table with a win. However, they may still be reeling from their late FA Cup exit against Manchester United. Liverpool must put that behind them as they face a tricky test at Anfield, with Klopp just having five home games left as Liverpool boss.

Score prediction: 2-0

Can United sting the Bees? – Brentford v Manchester United: Saturday 8pm

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Morale will be high in the Manchester United camp after a huge win against Liverpool in the FA Cup. Now matters focus back on the Premier League and Erik ten Hag will be hoping his side can kick on against struggling Brentford. Ahead of fixtures against Chelsea and Liverpool, United need to keep their top four hopes alive at the Gtech Stadium.

Thomas Frank’s side will be boosted by Nottingham Forest’s points deduction but Brentford are far from safe yet, only five points above the dotted line. Kobbie Mainoo’s recent debut for England may boost his confidence as United need to build on their two wins in a row to finish the season strongly.

Score prediction: 1-3

Spurs still in search of the Champions League – Tottenham v Luton: Saturday 3pm

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Despite a damaging 3-0 defeat to Fulham last time out, Spurs are still in the race for Champions League qualification. They face a Luton side who sit in 17th, after Nottingham Forest were handed a 4 points deduction. Spurs failed to score for the first time this season at Craven Cottage, but at home against Rob Edwards’ side, they will be favourites. Ange Postecoglou’s side will have have to respond against a stubborn Luton side who narrowly lost to Tottenham in the reverse fixture in September

Score prediction: 2-1

Fiery Forest fuelled by points deduction – Nottingham Forest v Crystal Palace: Saturday 3pm

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It is Nottingham Forest’s first game since being handed their points deduction for breaching the Premier League’s financial rules. Although they are in the process of appealing, they will have to put their focus on their reaction on the pitch. They host Crystal Palace in what is a winnable game on paper, but Oliver Glasner is still getting used to life in the Premier League and will be keen to pick up a first away win in charge of the Eagles.

The Forest fans may want to make their feelings known to the Premier League in what could be a lively atmosphere at the City Ground. Can the players respond and claw back three of the four points they lost?

Score prediction: 1-1