Get ready for a thrilling day of Premier League action on January 18, 2025! This analysis breaks down the key fixtures, highlighting crucial statistics and offering insights into what to expect.
Newcastle vs. Bournemouth (16:30 Armenia Standard Time): Newcastle, currently vying for a top spot, welcomes Bournemouth to St. James’ Park. Newcastle’s strong home record on Saturdays at this time slot (W4 D2 in their last six) gives them an edge. However, Bournemouth has struggled in similar fixtures, losing eight of their last 11. Historically, these encounters have been close, with four of the last five ending in draws. Keep an eye on Newcastle’s Alexander Isak (15 goals) and Bournemouth’s Dominic Solanke. Newcastle is expected to dominate possession (averaging 58% at home), while Bournemouth will likely rely on counter-attacks.
West Ham vs. Crystal Palace (19:00 Armenia Standard Time): This London derby sees West Ham, aiming for consistency, host Crystal Palace. West Ham has a remarkable scoring streak against Palace (scoring in their last 21 league meetings). However, Palace boasts a strong recent away record against West Ham (W2 D3 in their last five). Jarrod Bowen will be key for West Ham’s attack, while Crystal Palace will rely on their defensive duo, Joachim Andersen and Marc Guéhi. A win could see West Ham leapfrog Manchester United in the table.
Brentford vs. Liverpool (19:00 Armenia Standard Time): League leaders Liverpool face a tough test away at Brentford. Liverpool has an impressive record against London teams away from home, winning their last seven, with high-scoring victories in some. Brentford, however, is formidable at home, having earned points in 22 of their last 24 home matches. The spotlight will be on Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah (18 goals, 13 assists) and Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo (13 goals). Brentford’s disciplined defense will be crucial against Liverpool’s high press.
Leicester City vs. Fulham (19:00 Armenia Standard Time): Struggling Leicester City faces a crucial match against Fulham at the King Power Stadium. Fulham has a strong record against Leicester, winning six of their last 11 encounters. Leicester’s recent form is concerning, having lost their last six league matches. Fulham, with Antonee Robinson in good form, will look to exploit Leicester’s leaky defense (44 goals conceded).
Arsenal vs. Aston Villa (21:30 Armenia Standard Time): Title contenders Arsenal host Aston Villa at the Emirates. This match marks Unai Emery’s return to his former club. While Aston Villa has a decent recent record against Arsenal (winning five of their last ten), Arsenal is undefeated in their last 13 home games. Arsenal’s attacking duo, Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard, will be vital, while Villa will depend on Ollie Watkins’ counter-attacking threat. A win for Arsenal could put pressure on Liverpool at the top of the table.