Mikel Arteta’s side should dominate possession but will need to be wary of Leeds’ pressure and direct transitions. If Arsenal can manage the early storm, their superior quality in midfield and attack should finally tell.

Prediction: Leeds 1-2 Arsenal

Chelsea vs West Ham (5:30pm)
This London derby comes at an interesting moment for both sides. Chelsea have shown signs of progress under Liam Rosenier but have been inconsistent, especially when expected to control games at Stamford Bridge.

West Ham are hard to beat and are comfortable sitting compact before breaking quickly. Their physicality and organization could frustrate Chelsea if the hosts fail to move the ball quickly.

This looks like a match where neither side has enough to fully impose themselves.

Prediction: Chelsea 1-1 West Ham

Liverpool vs Newcastle (8pm)
Liverpool welcome Newcastle to Anfield as a home win is non-negotiable in a tightly packed top-four race. The Reds have been dominant in spells this season but have struggled to convert possession into goals at times.

Newcastle remain dangerous against the league’s bigger sides, especially when afforded the space to counter. However, Anfield rarely forgives, and Liverpool’s intensity should overwhelm Eddie Howe’s side over the course of 90 minutes.

Prediction: Liverpool 2-1 Newcastle

sunday

Manchester United vs Fulham (2pm)
United have shown signs of renewed confidence under interim boss Michael Carrick, but any consistency remains elusive. Fulham come with little pressure and are quietly effective against the teams around them in the table.

United should see more of the ball but Fulham’s formation and threat on the break could make this uncomfortable, especially if the home side fail to take early chances.

Still, Old Trafford often find a way to secure narrow victories.

Prediction: Manchester United 2-1 Fulham

Tottenham vs Manchester City (4:30pm)
The weekend’s standout fixture sees Tottenham host Manchester City in a meeting that could have big implications at both ends of the table.

Spurs have struggled for consistency and confidence in recent weeks, while City seem to be building momentum at the right time. Pep Guardiola’s side will be expected to control large spells of the game, and Tottenham’s defensive fragility could be exposed if they fail to match City’s intensity.

City’s depth and experience give them a clear edge in these moments, but beware of Spurs’ stellar record against them.

Prediction: Tottenham 1-3 Manchester City