As we head into the festive period, the Premier League is set to deliver another exciting and unpredictable weekend of action. Gameweek 16 promises plenty of drama, with key fixtures at both ends of the table. The Manchester derby headlines the weekend, while title contenders Arsenal and Liverpool aim to extend their lead at the top. Meanwhile, teams fighting relegation are desperate for points as they look to climb out of danger.
With matches scattered across Saturday and Sunday, here’s a comprehensive preview of how Gameweek 16 might unfold.
Saturday 14 December: Arsenal, Liverpool, and More
Saturday kicks off with a full slate of 15:00 GMT fixtures, offering fans plenty to enjoy as they head into the weekend. There are no early kick-offs, allowing fans ample time to prepare for a day of Premier League action.
Arsenal vs Everton
Arsenal will be hoping to bounce back from a frustrating 1-1 draw against Fulham in their last Premier League outing. The Gunners, who were unable to capitalize on Liverpool’s postponed derby, face Everton at home. Despite the Toffees’ extended rest of ten days, Arsenal should have enough quality to secure a comfortable win. Mikel Arteta’s side comes off a dominant 4-1 victory over Monaco in the Champions League, and they’ll be eager to extend their lead at the top of the table.
Prediction: Arsenal 2-0 Everton
Liverpool vs Fulham
Liverpool enters this match with a four-point advantage at the top of the table. Jurgen Klopp’s side showed signs of rustiness in their narrow 1-0 win over Girona in the Champions League, but their league form has been near flawless. Fulham, on the other hand, earned a solid point against Arsenal last weekend and will look to frustrate Liverpool at Anfield. While Fulham has been tricky for top teams this season, Liverpool’s firepower, led by Mohamed Salah, should see them comfortably through.
Prediction: Liverpool 3-1 Fulham
Newcastle United vs Leicester City
Newcastle United have struggled recently, going four games without a win. Their defence has been a cause for concern, particularly in their 3-1 defeat to Brentford. Leicester City, who are unbeaten under Ruud van Nistelrooy’s management, will be hoping to take advantage of the Magpies’ vulnerabilities. This clash is crucial for both teams, with Newcastle hoping to find form and Leicester looking to build on their solid run.
Prediction: Newcastle United 3-2 Leicester City
Wolverhampton Wanderers vs Ipswich Town
Wolverhampton Wanderers are in desperate need of a win, having lost three consecutive matches. Manager Gary O’Neil remains under pressure, and another defeat could lead to a change in the dugout. Ipswich Town, however, is no push-over, and despite a three-game losing streak, they’ve kept things tight. This fixture is a must-win for both sides, and it could end in a draw as neither side will want to lose.
Prediction: Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-2 Ipswich Town
Nottingham Forest vs Aston Villa
Nottingham Forest have been one of the surprise packages this season, sitting comfortably in the upper half of the table. Steve Cooper’s side will be buoyed by their recent win and will look to continue their positive momentum. Aston Villa, on the other hand, have also been in strong form, with three consecutive wins. This one could be closely contested, but Forest’s home advantage might give them the edge.
Prediction: Nottingham Forest 2-1 Aston Villa
Sunday 15 December: Manchester Derby, London Drama, and More
Sunday features two big London derbies, with the added spectacle of the Manchester derby in the late afternoon. The day’s action will kick off with Brighton & Hove Albion hosting Crystal Palace in what promises to be an entertaining encounter.
Brighton & Hove Albion vs Crystal Palace
Brighton will look to continue their fine form when they face their south London rivals Crystal Palace. The Seagulls have been solid at home and will have the confidence of their recent performances. Palace, who have been inconsistent, will need to raise their game to challenge Brighton at the AMEX Stadium. Brighton’s superior attacking play should give them the advantage in this one.
Prediction: Brighton & Hove Albion 2-0 Crystal Palace
Manchester City vs Manchester United
The Manchester derby is set to take centre stage on Sunday afternoon. Manchester City are struggling with form, having lost seven of their last ten matches in all competitions. However, Pep Guardiola’s men will still pose a major challenge, especially with their attacking prowess. Manchester United, under Erik ten Hag, will be keen to exploit City’s vulnerabilities, having beaten their neighbours 3-0 in the last derby. United are likely to take advantage of City’s struggles and could snatch a point at the Etihad.
Prediction: Manchester City 2-2 Manchester United
Chelsea vs Brentford
Chelsea are enjoying a great run of form under new manager Mauricio Pochettino, particularly at Stamford Bridge. Brentford, while strong at home, have struggled on the road, and Chelsea will be confident of taking all three points in this London derby. With players like Cole Palmer and Christopher Nkunku firing on all cylinders, Chelsea should have enough quality to get the job done.
Prediction: Chelsea 3-1 Brentford
Southampton vs Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham Hotspur will make the trip to the south coast to face Southampton, who have had a turbulent season so far. Spurs have been prolific in attack but continue to struggle defensively. Southampton, meanwhile, will be looking to take advantage of Spurs’ defensive weaknesses and hope to secure a much-needed win. Tottenham’s firepower should see them edge this one, though.
Prediction: Southampton 2-3 Tottenham Hotspur
Monday 16 December: Bournemouth vs West Ham United
The final match of Gameweek 16 sees West Ham United travel to the Vitality Stadium to face Bournemouth. West Ham managed to ease the pressure on manager Julen Lopetegui with a crucial win in their last outing, while Bournemouth has been in excellent form, beating big teams like Arsenal, Manchester City, and Tottenham at home. With the Cherries in great form, they will be confident of picking up all three points.
Prediction: Bournemouth 2-0 West Ham United
Gameweek 16 Predictions Summary
| Fixture | Prediction |
|---|---|
| Arsenal vs Everton | 2-0 |
| Liverpool vs Fulham | 3-1 |
| Newcastle United vs Leicester City | 3-2 |
| Wolverhampton Wanderers vs Ipswich Town | 2-2 |
| Nottingham Forest vs Aston Villa | 2-1 |
| Brighton & Hove Albion vs Crystal Palace | 2-0 |
| Manchester City vs Manchester United | 2-2 |
| Chelsea vs Brentford | 3-1 |
| Southampton vs Tottenham Hotspur | 2-3 |
| Bournemouth vs West Ham United | 2-0 |
Conclusion
Gameweek 16 promises to be another thrilling weekend in the Premier League. With high-stakes fixtures for both the title contenders and relegation battlers, fans can expect plenty of drama and excitement. The Manchester derby will be the focal point, but every match offers a potential upset or breakthrough, especially with the festive period upon us. Make sure not to miss a minute of the action as we head into the final stretch before Christmas.
