Former Arsenal midfielder and renowned pundit Paul Merson has released his latest score predictions for the high-stakes Premier League Matchday 18 schedule, covering the Christmas and Boxing Day periods through the final weekend of 2025. The festive action centered on a Boxing Day clash at Old Trafford, where Manchester United hosted Newcastle United in a pivotal battle for European qualification.
Merson expects a tightly contested draw between the two sides, as both Ruben Amorim and Eddie Howe look to stabilize their respective campaigns during the congested winter period.
Saturday’s afternoon window begins with a critical encounter at the City Ground as Nottingham Forest welcomes Manchester City, with the visitors aiming to reclaim the top spot in the league table. The evening transition features Liverpool hosting Wolverhampton Wanderers at Anfield, followed by a double-header that sees Arsenal entertain Brighton and Hove Albion while Chelsea travels to face a high-flying Aston Villa.
Merson’s forecasts suggest several high-scoring affairs, particularly backing both Arsenal and Liverpool to secure dominant home victories to keep pace in the title race.
The weekend’s proceedings conclude on Sunday with two final fixtures. Crystal Palace will engage in a London derby against Tottenham Hotspur, while the Championship sees a storied rivalry renewed as Sunderland takes on Leeds United. Throughout his analysis for Sportskeeda, Merson highlighted the impact of fatigue and the lack of rotation options for several squads currently dealing with extensive injury lists and AFCON-related absences.
Paul Merson’s Premier League Score Predictions:
Manchester United 2-2 Newcastle United Nottingham Forest 1-1 Manchester City West Ham United 2-1 Fulham Brentford 2-1 Bournemouth Liverpool 3-0 Wolves Arsenal 3-0 Brighton Burnley 1-1 Everton Chelsea 2-2 Aston Villa Sunderland 2-1 Leeds United Crystal Palace 1-1 Tottenham Hotspur
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