1
The weakened Arsenal aims to postpone the unavoidable
When Arsenal heads to Merseyside on May 11, their primary goal might be to create a guard of honor for Liverpool as they potentially celebrate the Premier League title win. The trophy appears to be destined for Anfield – Arsenal has struggled to provide a steady challenge throughout the season – yet Mikel Arteta will feel compelled to delay this outcome for as long as possible in his return to Everton. The Champions League quarter-final clash against Real Madrid on Tuesday will benefit from a challenging afternoon ahead, before facing off with the real thing at the Emirates. Arne Slot suggested it was unfair for Everton to play early on Saturday after Wednesday’s Merseyside derby. Exhaustion or not, Arteta’s team must capitalize on this. Andy Hunter
2
Richards emerges as a hidden hero in Palace’s defense
After Chelsea recalled Trebocharova from his loan at Crystal Palace in January, the South London club was left with only three main central defenders. However, while Maxence Lacroix and Marc Guéhi are both commendable, the absence of Christ Richards during the match against Southampton on Tuesday proved crucial for the Palace, which conceded its first away goal of 2025, concluding a remarkable streak of seven games across competitions. The statistics reveal how crucial he is under Glasner, with Palace averaging 2.03 points per game with him on the field compared to only 1.1 without him. Fortunately, the 25-year-old former Bayern Munich defender is expected to return for the showdown at Selhurst Park against Brighton on Saturday. Ed Aaron
3
Wolves set to miss Pereira for the journey to Ipswich
Vítor Pereira is a spirited and emotive figure on the sideline, which might explain his absence during the Wolves’ journey to Portman Road. The head coach received a booking during the decisive win against West Ham mid-week, but it didn’t hinder his enthusiastic celebration at full-time. It’s unusual for a head coach to energize from the sidelines, and the Wolves will have to manage without him and assistant Luis Miguel, who faces a similar situation. Pereira has been creatively supporting his players since his hiring, but the question is how Wolves will cope in his absence. After Ipswich’s unexpected win over Bournemouth, another success for the Tractor Boys on Saturday would tighten the gap to Wolves by six points. I'll be requiring
4
Potter ought to take risks at West Ham
Graham Potter has been somewhat cautious since taking the helm at West Ham in January. His results have included: 3-2, 0-2, 1-1, 1-2, 0-1, 1-0, 2-0, 0-1, 1-1, 0-1. The excitement has been lacking, and performances at home have not been particularly impressive. Considering the team’s defensive woes under Julen Lopetegui, Potter has emphasized containment since taking over from the Spaniard. He primarily deployed a back three, which required sacrificing an attacker, but this strategy failed when West Ham fell 1-0 to Wolves on Tuesday. Potter should adopt a more aggressive approach on Saturday against Bournemouth, as he rarely takes risks as the season closes. Jacob Steinberg
5
January signings have rejuvenated Villa
Unai Emery has accomplished several remarkable achievements since transforming Aston Villa, but his latest accomplishment is perhaps his finest. From the January transfer window, given the involved figures, if one could call it that, it brings value for money. Typically deemed a notorious and challenging period for team enhancement, it is often associated with panic buys and rectifying costly errors; nevertheless, alongside the signing of Donyell Malen, the arrivals of Marcus Rashford, Marco Asensio, and Axel Disasi provide Villa with renewed energy. Rashford, Maren, and Asensio found the net in Wednesday’s notable win against Brighton, with only eight Spaniards managing to score more across competitions since Asensio’s debut in February. Following six consecutive victories, Villa is now aiming for further momentum ahead of their Champions League quarter-final clash at Princess in the Champions League quarterfinals. Ben Fisher
6
Mbeumo and Wissa target Toney’s record
Ivan Toney netted 20 goals in the 2022-23 season for Brentford, the highest ever recorded by a Premier League honeybee player. Included among those were six penalties, which significantly boosted his statistics. Bryan Mbeumo assumed Toney’s penalty duties and converted all five this season within a total of 16 goals. His striking partner Yoane Wissa has marked the campaign with 14 goals, and one against Chelsea puts them in a position to challenge Toney’s record in the final stretch. Even if they fall short of matching Toney individually, Mbeumo and Wissa are aware they must more than make up for the absence of the England international who has moved to Saudi Arabia. The Bees stand alone as the only squad with two players in the top 10 of Premier League scorers this season, highlighting their cohesiveness beyond individual talents. Woo
7
Jones isn’t a sustainable solution at right back
Arne Slot was impressed with Curtis Jones’ showing at right back during Liverpool’s Merseyside derby triumph. However, this doesn’t seem like a feasible long-term solution. Though Jones was an impressive alternative, it certainly didn’t give an accurate preview of life without Trent Alexander-Arnold. With Conor Bradley unlikely to be available as well, Slot may need to consider more traditional options when Liverpool takes on Fulham. After all, Jones is not a defender by trade. His ball skills make him an appealing choice in a fixture where Liverpool is expected to dominate, but they may need a sturdier player for tougher challenges. Jarell Quansah could push for a spot against Fulham, as they possess a threatening left flank, indicating that Bradley might compete for a position. Looking forward, Liverpool will need to invest in a replacement for Alexander-Arnold should a deal with Real Madrid materialize to ensure sufficient cover during injury crises. JS
8
Dibling aims to impress potential suitors
As Southampton nears the championship, they will consider which players will remain next season. Tyler Dibling is a valuable asset for the Saints and will command a hefty fee from anyone in the summer unless he opts to stay in the comforts of home. Tottenham has frequently been linked to the promising winger. Dibling will visit there on Sunday with the potential to catch the attention of Ange Postecoglou and his scouting team. Dibling came off the bench against Crystal Palace mid-week, but he will be re-energized and enthusiastic this weekend. With his prime years ahead, the lively football promoted by Postecoglou could showcase his attributes effectively – the teenager is eager to shine in North London. Woo
9
City seeks to avenge the Derby after defeat at the Etihad
This 196th local derby pits the weakest Manchester United lineup of the Premier League era against a faltering Manchester City, champions of the last four seasons, striving to regain Champions League form. The tired adage about derbies is that form becomes irrelevant in a rivalry. This is likely true on Sunday, but after United’s win in the earlier fixture this season, the views here will seek a way to claim victory in front of the hostile Old Trafford crowd. Jamie Jackson
10
Van Nistelrooy’s records are dismal
Ruud van Nistelrooy has experienced 14 defeats in 17 Premier League matches at the helm in Leicester, including a streak of seven consecutive losses. This is a rather embarrassing statistic for the Dutchman. Foxes supporters will be hoping for a positive outcome as they travel to Southampton on May 3rd. Each prior match appears daunting for the Leicester side, lacking both quality and self-assurance. They struggled to register a single shot on target in their latest meek loss against Manchester City. Van Nistelrooy needs to secure points urgently, and another disheartening defeat against Newcastle, a team chasing Champions League qualification, raises further concerns regarding whether the Dutchman is the right person to lead them back next season. Leicester’s efforts to avoid relegation may be faltering, but they must find a glimmer of hope before summer hits. Woo
