Premier League

Football writer Adrian Clarke analyses Marcos Senesi's time at AFC Bournemouth and why Tottenham Hotspur made the move to sign him.

Given that Tottenham Hotspur conceded 122 goals across the last two league seasons, the most of any Premier League side, it is not surprising they are trying to strengthen their defence this summer.

Following their recent signing of former Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson, Spurs have now recruited a central defender who offers leadership and quality, both in and out of possession.

Marcos Senesi, who recently turned 29, enjoyed four excellent campaigns with AFC Bournemouth, proving himself as a consistent top-flight performer.

Assertive, brilliant with the ball at his feet, and durable – starting 37 matches last season – he feels like an extremely low-risk acquisition.

Watch: The best of Senesi at Bournemouth

A resilient presence

Like many South American defenders, Senesi plays with fierce determination.

The experienced centre-back ranked second for clearances and blocks in 2025/26, only behind Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk and Everton's James Tarkowski, respectively.

His 47 blocks for the Cherries were 25 more than Spurs’ top defender in that department, Micky van de Ven (22).

PL centre-backs, most interceptions/blocks/clearances 25/26

Interceptions Blocks Clearances Senesi (BOU) 56 Tarkowski (EVE) 52 Van Dijk (LIV) 275 Ampadu (LEE) 50 Senesi (BOU) 47 Senesi (BOU) 253 Guehi (MCI) 50 Collins (BRE) 41 Lacroix (CRY) 252

Scroll across on mobile to see the full table

Spurs supporters will also enjoy Senesi's proactive reading of the game.

No Premier League defender came close to matching his 56 interceptions, as he regularly stepped forward to break up opposition attacks with ease.

Senesi also relishes his duels with opposition forwards.

It is little wonder he was so popular at Bournemouth.

Made for De Zerbi?

To ensure safety, Spurs head coach Roberto De Zerbi kept his messaging simple during the run-in, resisting the temptation to implement his own style of play.

In 2026/27, the Italian will almost certainly place a greater emphasis on higher possession and building play from the back.

And in that sense, Senesi looks a terrific fit.

In his only full season in charge of Brighton & Hove Albion in 2023/24, De Zerbi’s centre-backs, Lewis Dunk and Jan Paul van Hecke, ranked first and sixth among top-flight defenders for the most successful passes.

Last season, despite playing for a Bournemouth side who were not possession-based, the only defenders to attempt more passes than Senesi were those two Brighton stars, plus Van Dijk.

Senesi wants the ball at his feet, and his confident distribution will get Spurs up the pitch quicker.

PL centre-backs, most passes into final third and successful long passes 25/26

Passes into final third Successful long passes Senesi 516 Senesi 182 Van Dijk 425 Andersen 166 Van Hecke 383 Van Dijk 137

His forte is to make progressive forward passes, finding team-mates inside the final third more frequently than anyone else in his position.

These accurate long passes could be good news for striker Dominic Solanke, who played alongside Senesi for two seasons at Bournemouth.

The England international’s hold-up play, and willingness to run the channels, is sure to provide Senesi with a useful target.

The division’s most creative central defender?

Spurs have signed a centre-back who offers a surprising amount of imagination with the ball at his feet, creating 24 chances, including 22 from open play,

Striding forward to support attacks, the Argentinian’s laser-guided left foot tends to make things happen inside the final third.

The key-pass map (below) shows how impactful Senesi’s forward passes were for the Cherries throughout 2025/26.

He pushes on to great effect before feeding the ball into forwards.

Senesi's chances created in open play 25/26

The Argentinian defender made an incredible 144 line-breaking passes into the final third last season, ranking him between two of the Premier League's best midfielders, Man Utd captain Bruno Fernandes and Liverpool's Dominik Szoboszlai.

For a defender to be remotely close to those star talents proves how unique his skill set is.

Only one player in the entire division made more line-breaking passes overall, and that was former De Zerbi protege Van Hecke.

Having a defender who moves the ball forward with quality is clearly very important to the Spurs head coach.

It points towards his team being more press-resistant, and possibly more direct in their tactical approach next season.

PL players with most line-breaking passes 25/26

Line-breaking passes Successful line-breaking passes Van Hecke (BHA) 457 Fernandes (MUN) 145 Senesi (BOU) 424 Senesi (BOU) 144 Anderson (NFO) 375 Szoboszlai (LIV) 137

Fans at his new club know all about Senesi’s distribution of course.

In one of 14 through-balls he made in 2025/26, the defender fed a fantastic pass into the box for Evanilson to score the winner in a 1-0 success at Spurs.

Watch: Senesi's assist for Evanilson against Spurs

These two assists against West Ham United and Leeds United (below) also outline Senesi's credentials when it comes to splitting an opposition defence open.

Spurs as a side delivered just 28 through-balls (a joint low with Leeds) so having someone willing to make these forward passes could be a game changer for their attacking play.

The assist below, for Junior Kroupi against Leeds, came from an initial interception inside the opposition half, which was followed by a purposeful dribble.

Unafraid to carry the ball towards goal, it is Brighton’s Van Hecke, once again, who is the only Premier League defender to have attempted more ball carries.

Most ball carries, 25/26

Player Total Van Hecke (BHA) 920 Bernardo Silva (MCI) 649 Anderson (NFO) 636 Rice (ARS) 624 Senesi (BOU) 591

How will Spurs look at the back next season?

As one of the division’s best centre-backs, with and without the ball, Senesi is sure to nail down a place in De Zerbi’s starting XI.

He always plays on the left of a pairing in central defence though, so it will be interesting to see what happens with Van de Ven this summer.

The Netherlands international occupies that spot but could in theory play at left-back as well.

De Zerbi also currently has Cristian Romero, Kevin Danso, Radu Dragusin, youngster Luka Vuskovic and potentially Ben Davies available to play in central defence.

It is too early to say with any certainty how they will line up in August.

However, with Robertson having also been signed, it looks like De Zerbi is going to unleash a new-look pair of left footers within his back four in 2026/27.

Football writer Adrian Clarke analyses Andy Robertson's stellar career at Liverpool and assesses what he can add to Tottenham Hotspur after joining the north London club.

A true Liverpool great

There will be many people who feel Andy Robertson, a virtual ever-present during a hugely successful period for Liverpool, is one of the world's greatest left-backs.

He is the best Liverpool have had in the Premier League era for sure; in terms of the best in the club's entire history, Alan Kennedy — the scorer of two European Cup-winning goals — is Robertson's main competition.

Trophy-wise, Robertson won it all in Liverpool colours — the Premier League (twice), the UEFA Champions League, the FA Cup, the League Cup (twice) and the FIFA Club World Cup.

Watch: The BEST of Robertson at Liverpool

Jurgen Klopp’s high-intensity football was tailor-made for the tenacious Scot.

Flying up and down the flank, in and out of possession with equal enthusiasm, his energetic style married perfectly with the tone and tactics of the German’s outstanding side.

It was a match made in heaven.

At his peak, Robertson was also greatly admired by other head coaches around the world.

After his side had lost 3-1 to Liverpool in December 2018, Manchester United's manager at the time, Jose Mourinho said: "They are fast, they are intense, they are aggressive, they are physical, they are objective.

"They play 200 miles per hour with and without the ball. I am still tired from looking at Robertson. He makes 100-metre sprints every minute, absolutely incredible."

A running machine

Robertson’s amazing energy levels set him apart from most full-backs during his peak years.

In the 2020/21 season, he ran a total of 389.3km, which was the second-furthest distance by any full-back, finishing just behind Leeds United right-back Luke Ayling.

Noted for his sprinting ability, Robertson topped the Premier League full-backs' sprint charts for three successive seasons between 2019 and 2022.

PL full-backs with the most sprints

Season Player Sprints 2019/20 Robertson 567 Digne 438 Chilwell 427 2020/21 Robertson 843 Digne 583 Coufal 574 2021/22 Robertson 656 Cash 648 Cucurella 599

Robertson's pressing has always been relentless, and it is a trait which will instantly adhere him to Spurs supporters.

He famously earned the affection of the Anfield fans with a sensational 13-second press in a 4-3 win against Manchester City in January 2018.

Closing down Bernardo Silva, Kyle Walker, John Stones, Ederson and Nicolas Otamendi in one outrageous, continuous sprint, the tigerish Scotland international produced one of the most iconic pieces of defending seen in the history of the Premier League.

Watch: Robertson's incredible pressing v Man City

Stellar stats

Only two Premier League full-backs have ever produced 10+ assists in three different seasons: Trent Alexander-Arnold and Robertson in 2018/19, 2019/20 and 2021/22.

Liverpool full-backs' PL assist totals

Season Robertson Alexander-Arnold 2018/19 11 12 2019/20 12 13 2021/22 10 12

Robertson has been the leading Premier League left-back in a wide variety of metrics since the start of 2017/18, the first season after his reported £8million transfer from Hull City to Liverpool.

During that period he is ranked first in a string of attacking departments, including chances created, touches in the opposition box, big chances created and successful passes ending in the final third.

He has a fabulous 56 assists to his name (the most by any Premier League left-back).

Aston Villa’s Lucas Digne is the only left-back with more successful open-play crosses.

How Robertson's attacking stats rank among PL left-backs since 17/18

Statistic Total Left-back rank Defender rank Touches in opp. box 612 1st 1st Chances created (inc. assists) 430 1st 2nd Big chances created 88 1st 2nd Assists 56 1st 2nd Open-play crosses 973 1st 2nd Succ. open-play crosses 191 2nd 3rd Succ. passes ending in final third 4,000 1st 1st

Scroll across on mobile to see the full table

So is Robertson the Premier League’s greatest left-back ever?

Arsenal and Chelsea legend Ashley Cole perhaps shades him for that accolade, but few would argue that Robertson is only just behind Cole in the pecking order.

Why are Spurs signing Robertson?

Spurs were one of many suitors looking to persuade Robertson to join them on a free transfer when his Liverpool contract expires at the end of the month.

The north London club reportedly tried to recruit him in January, a move which fell through when Liverpool could not recall Kostas Tsimikas from his loan spell with Roma.

New Spurs head coach Roberto de Zerbi was keen to revive the deal, and after fighting off reported interest from Juventus, he has secured the services of the 32-year-old.

Spurs already have Destiny Udogie and Djed Spence as left-back options, but their dressing room is currently light on senior figures and strong role models. "He brings experience, mentality and qualities," De Zerbi said after the signing was announced. "He's a big player for us."

Watch De Zerbi on what Robertson brings

Robertson is a serial winner, accustomed to high standards being kept on and off the pitch, and knows how to drive the culture needed to achieve success.

That is a very attractive quality Spurs need right now after back-to-back 17th-place finishes.

Robertson’s vast experience, strong character and burning desire to win is likely to have a positive impact.

Can he reach the lofty heights of old?

Robertson, 32, will lead Scotland at the FIFA World Cup 2026, so he has plenty to offer in the short term.

In 2025/26, he started 11 Premier League games for Liverpool, making a further 13 substitute appearances. Across all club competitions, he was involved in 35 matches.

Robertson will provide great width and balance for Spurs, and although he does not surge into the opposition penalty area as often as he once did, the Scot will still get forward.

Robertson’s heat map from the season which has just ended (below) shows how attack-minded he remains.

Robertson’s numbers are also still impressive.

In terms of tackling, productivity from crosses and chance creation per 90 minutes, he outperformed every Spurs defender in 2025/26.

For this reason, Robertson can quickly establish himself as a regular starter for his new club.

Robertson v Spurs left-backs 25/26*

Passes played into box Tackle success Robertson 5.07 Robertson 75.00% Spence 2.67 Spence 61.36% Udogie 1.75 Udogie 61.29%

Succ. open-play crosses Chances created Robertson 0.92 Robertson 1.54 Spence 0.44 Spence 0.81 Udogie 0.34 Udogie 0.44

*Stats per 90 mins

This feels like a very astute signing from Spurs, who are guaranteed to benefit from the quality and leadership skills Robertson will bring.

He may not be at the peak of his powers anymore, but Robertson has the class and personality required to raise standards on and off the pitch.

De Zerbi wants intelligent, technical players who also play with determination and courage. The 32-year Scot certainly ticks those boxes.

It was a final-day fairytale for Sunderland after they made history by qualifying for Europe for the first time in 52 years despite beginning the afternoon outside the qualification places.

In a final day full of twists in the race for Europe, the promoted team sprang the biggest surprise, taking the lead against Chelsea in the 25th minute to climb into eighth – the final UEFA Europa League qualification place – above their opponents.

When Brighton & Hove Albion fell behind to Manchester United on 33 minutes, they dropped below Sunderland, who had trailed them on goal difference – moving the Black Cats into seventh and the UEFA Europa League.

It was where they remained when the final whistles blew, jumping from 10th to seventh in an astonishing climax to the campaign. Fans at the Stadium of Light wildly celebrated an unexpected end to an unexpectedly amazing season for a side who had come up via the Championship playoffs only a year ago.

They become just the fifth promoted team to qualify for Europe on league position.

“A steward came and tried to show us the other scores on his phone but the 4G didn't work but then we found out we had done it,” Sunderland player Trai Hume, who scored the opener, said.

“It hasn't sunk in yet. Coming up to the start of the season I don't think anyone gave us a chance to stay up let alone Europe."

Brighton were three goals down within three minutes of the second half, meaning Brentford – drawing 1-1 with Liverpool after 64 minutes – knew a win would take them into Europe.

Who else but Bruno Fernandes to set up Patrick Dorgu’s opener, giving the Man Utd captain the outright Premier League single-season assists record with 21, one clear of Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne.

When the Brighton game concluded, Seagulls fans nervously checked their phones for news of a Brentford goal. But, as Brentford were unable to find one, the Brighton fans celebrated a Europa Conference League place, alongside the players, while Brentford agonisingly missed out on a first season in Europe on goal difference.

It is only the second time Brighton have qualified for Europe.

The point also meant Bournemouth – who needed a huge goal-difference swing – could not pip Liverpool for the top five and the Champions League. Their draw at Nottingham Forest secured sixth spot, nonetheless, and a place in the Europa League, a first-ever European qualification in the club’s history, in Andoni Iraola’s final game as their head coach.

“I cannot ask for much more,” Iraola said. “I have been so lucky to be in this moment with this group of players with this club. I think it is the perfect ending and I am so thankful.”

In a disappointing end to a disappointing season, Chelsea’s defeat left them 10th.

Spurs edge tense relegation fight

At the other end of the table, Tottenham Hotspur came through an excruciating afternoon to escape relegation on the final day.

At home to Everton Spurs had been knocking on the door all half – registering their most first-half shots in a Premier League game this season – when it finally opened in the 43rd minute.

Joao Palhinha headed against a post but converted the rebound. The ball inched just over the line – and was enough, in the end, to inch Spurs to safety.

At the break, West Ham United – still goalless with Leeds United despite needing a win – trailed by four points and knew chances of survival were slipping away.

But a glimmer of hope arrived in the 67th minute when January signing Valentin Castellanos gave them the lead, cutting the gap to one point. West Ham were an Everton comeback away from safety.

Jarrod Bowen added a second 13 minutes later, and anxiety rippled around the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Phones were checked. Nails were bitten. Groans escaped lips.

Callum Wilson struck a third in stoppage time and West Ham had done all they could. Back in north London, tension rose again when nine minutes of stoppage time were flashed on the fourth official’s board.

Everton pushed hard for a goal, but Spurs fans finally chanted, “We are staying up!” when the clock ticked to 99 minutes.

Spurs captain Micky van de Ven is confident there would not be a repeat next season. “With the right people now here – the right manager – I'm confident,” he said. “Finishing 17th two years in a row is unacceptable for us.”

A despondent West Ham captain Bowen said: “I want this club to be in the Premier League. It's a club that means so much to me and has given me so much so my vision is to get this club back in the Premier League."

Departing legends

It was an afternoon of farewells at Manchester City and Liverpool, where key players and one of the greatest managers in Premier League history said their goodbyes.

At Anfield, Mohamed Salah left with a farewell assist – giving him the outright most in the Premier League of any Liverpool player – and struck the post before he was substituted with 16 minutes remaining, leaving the field to hugs with his team-mates.

His team-mate Andy Robertson was also applauded off for a final time.

Both received a guard of honour from Liverpool’s players and staff after the match, with Liverpool legends Kenny Dalglish and Ian Rush greeting them at the end.

WATCH: Salah and Robertson receive guard of honour

“I cried a lot – I think more than I did in my whole life!" Salah said.

At the Etihad, Bernardo Silva and John Stones were given guards of honour by their team-mates as they left the field in Manchester City's game against Aston Villa.

Pep Guardiola took charge of City for the final time – making one more piece of history after a decade full of it. His 593rd match in charge overtook Les McDowall’s club record.

Guardiola’s 95-year-old father, Valenti, applauded his son at the end. A montage of his 10 years at the club played on the big screens to an acoustic version of the Oasis song "Live Forever".

"I'm so nervous right now,” Guardiola said, addressing the crowd. “Why do you love me so much? Why do you do that to me?

"I never imagined the amount of love. It has been an incredible, tremendous honour to be your manager for 10 years.”

Arsenal celebrate like champions

Arsenal’s players were given a guard of honour by Crystal Palace as they walked out at Selhurst Park, having been crowned champions when Man City failed to win in midweek.

They finished the campaign in style, winning 2-1 to finish on 85 points – seven clear of Man City – before lifting the Premier League Trophy on the pitch.

WATCH: Arsenal lift the Premier League Trophy

“It was beautiful, look at how happy they are,” Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said, gesturing towards the fans.

His Palace counterpart Oliver Glasner took charge of his last game at Selhurst Park. “I will definitely miss all of the people here,” he told Sky Sports.

He signs off with a Europa Conference League final against Rayo Vallecano on Wednesday.

Elsewhere, Fulham beat Newcastle United to finish in 11th, one place ahead of the Magpies, concluding a frustrating campaign for Eddie Howe’s side.

West Ham United have been relegated from the Premier League after Tottenham Hotspur avoided defeat against Everton on the final day, ending the Hammers' 14-year stay in the top flight.

The Hammers needed to beat Leeds United at London Stadium in their final fixture and Spurs to lose against the Toffees at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in order to avoid the drop.

Although West Ham won 3-0 at home to Leeds, Spurs beat Everton 1-0, meaning Nuno Espirito Santo's side will play in the Championship in the 2026/27 season.

West Ham are relegated with 39 points, considerably higher than the average points tally of 34.5 for the team finishing in 17th place, safe from relegation, since the Premier League was reduced from 22 to 20 teams in 1995/96.

The Hammers mounted a fightback in the second half of the season, but Spurs' improved form under Roberto De Zerbi, who joined on 31 March, lifted them above West Ham and out of the relegation places.

It means Spurs preserve their status as one of only six ever-present sides in the Premier League, along with Arsenal, Chelsea, Everton, Liverpool and Manchester United.

Spurs and West Ham's recent results

It confirms all three relegated sides, with West Ham joining Burnley and Wolverhampton Wanderers in dropping into the Championship.

They will be replaced by Coventry City, Ipswich Town and Hull City. The latter earned their spot with a 1-0 playoff final win over Middlesbrough at Wembley on Saturday.

Nuno was appointed to replace Graham Potter as West Ham head coach at the end of September, but despite overseeing a good run of form this year, the Portuguese boss was unable to keep them up.

Relegated for a third time

It is the third time the Hammers have been relegated from the Premier League.

They dropped out in 2003 with 42 points – a record for a relegated side – then narrowly missed out on promotion the following season, losing the playoff final 1-0 to Crystal Palace.

They returned at the second attempt, however, beating Preston North End 1-0 in the 2004/05 playoff final.

Their next relegation came in 2011 – the last time West Ham were outside the top flight. They appointed Sam Allardyce that summer and he guided them straight back up via the playoffs, beating Blackpool 2-1 in the final at Wembley.

Since then, their highest finish was sixth, in 2020/21, followed by seventh the following season.

Under David Moyes, West Ham qualified for the UEFA Conference League and won the tournament in 2023 – the club’s first major trophy in 43 years.

Football writer Ben Bloom has predicted the line-up for every Premier League club in action on the Final Day.

See: Injury updates for every club and player

See: Who's suspended or close to a ban?

Brighton v Man Utd predicted line-ups

Brighton: The return of Diego Gomez off the bench last weekend could see the Paraguayan start here as Brighton bid for a European spot. That would see Ferdi Kadioglu pushed back into defence at the likely expense of either Joel Veltman or Maxim De Cuyper, unless Mats Wieffer is deemed fit enough to start following an ankle injury. James Milner has not got a look-in since his injury, with the Pascal Gross/Carlos Baleba axis standing strong in the middle of the pitch.

See: Brighton team news

Man Utd: While promising to “respect this last game”, Michael Carrick suggested he will give some of his young players a chance here. That could mean minutes for youngsters such as Tyler Fletcher and Shea Lacey. Ayden Heaven may be given an opportunity at the back, while Manuel Ugarte or Mason Mount are the most obvious candidates to replace the departing Casemiro, who will not be involved. Benjamin Sesko has missed the last two games and remains a significant doubt. Amad could lose his starting spot to one of Patrick Dorgu or Mount.

See: Man Utd team news

Burnley v Wolves predicted line-ups

Burnley: The battle to avoid finishing bottom of the Premier League features two clubs desperate for the season to end. Mike Jackson has suggested he will “give people some minutes” and “manipulate the squad a little bit”, so team prediction is something of a lottery. The side that lost to Arsenal last time out performed admirably enough, so ordinarily an unchanged line-up might be possible. But expect a few fresh faces here, with the likes of Bashir Humphreys, Josh Laurent, Zeki Amdouni, Marcus Edwards, Quilindschy Hartman and Jacob Bruun Larsen all candidates to come in.

See: Burnley team news

Wolves: Can Wolves produce a win that would see them end the season in the dizzy heights of 19th? Rob Edwards opted for a rare back four in the draw with Fulham last week, and he could well stick with the same personnel from that match, given they suit both a 4-2-3-1 and a 3-4-2-1. Should he replicate last week’s system, Rodrigo Gomes’ spot on the right wing is perhaps most in jeopardy, with Jackson Tchatchoua or Pedro Lima offering alternatives. Hugo Bueno could also return at left-back.

See: Wolves team news

Crystal Palace v Arsenal predicted line-ups

Crystal Palace: With Wednesday’s UEFA Conference League final looming, Oliver Glasner suggested he changes his mind multiple times a day “from full rotation, to no rotation, to half rotation” for this match. Chris Richards will certainly miss out after damaging ankle ligaments, and is also a major doubt for Wednesday. That should mean no defensive changes here, unless Jefferson Lerma is drafted in at the back. Selection is far less certain higher up the pitch, where Glasner will not want to risk injury to any of his players ahead of such a big game.

See: Crystal Palace team news

Arsenal: The Premier League champions will be eager to use this match to reward squad members and arrive at next week’s UEFA Champions League final in peak condition. Expect plenty of changes, then. William Saliba, Bukayo Saka and David Raya worked individually on Thursday, so are all leading candidates for a rest. Youngsters Marli Salmon and Max Dowman may well be given starts, with various squad members earning chances to show what they can do from the outset.

See: Arsenal team news

Fulham v Newcastle predicted line-ups

Fulham: Ryan Sessegnon is back in training, but seems an unlikely starter even if he does return to action here. It was an underwhelming performance at Wolves last time out so there may well be attacking changes. Harry Wilson was dropped to the bench for that game, but could return here, alongside the likes of Josh King, Samuel Chukwueze and Kevin, who are all candidates to feature.

See: Fulham team news

Newcastle: Kieran Trippier started last weekend, so Eddie Howe must decide whether to stick with the same back four or shift Lewis Hall over to right-back and play Dan Burn on the opposite flank. Sandro Tonali will “potentially” be available after tweaking his hamstring, with Howe suggesting it is not “too serious”. Joe Willock or Jacob Ramsey could replace Tonali if he does not make it. The front four worked well last time out against West Ham, so there is no obvious need to make changes, although Jacob Murphy and Anthony Elanga are options, while Anthony Gordon has not featured for five games ahead of a potential departure.

See: Newcastle team news

Liverpool v Brentford predicted line-ups

Liverpool: Arne Slot declined to reveal whether Mohamed Salah will make a final appearance for the club. Alisson Becker and Alexander Isak have both returned to training, but their availability remains uncertain, while Jeremie Frimpong is also a doubt. Andrew Robertson could be given one last start before he leaves this summer, with one of Curtis Jones or Joe Gomez likely to play at right-back. Salah’s potential involvement could determine whether Rio Ngumoha starts a third consecutive match.

See: Liverpool team news

Brentford: With European qualification at stake, Keith Andrews will pick his strongest team available. Kristoffer Ajer has started the last two games in place of Sepp van den Berg so it will be interesting to see who gets the nod here. Kevin Schade was rested last weekend following a barren run, with Vitaly Janelt starting after injury. An unchanged team is perhaps most likely here, but Schade may return and Jordan Henderson is waiting in the wings.

See: Brentford team news

Man City v Aston Villa predicted line-ups

Man City: Expect Pep Guardiola to make plenty of changes in his final match in charge. John Stones and Bernardo Silva could both start in what will be their last games before leaving the club. The likes of Phil Foden, Savinho and Rayan Cherki will all be hoping to feature. There must be a fair chance that Omar Marmoush comes in for Erling Haaland, but Guardiola could well want his star striker leading the line in his farewell game. Predict your Man City XI at your peril.

See: Man City team news

Aston Villa: Unai Emery said he “will try to be serious” with his team selection for this match, but admitted that “it’s not easy” to regain focus after winning the UEFA Europa League earlier in the week. As to who he opts for, that’s difficult to say. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez may well miss out after breaking his finger before kick-off in that Europa League final. Expect a host of other squad players to be given a chance from the outset.

See: Villa team news

Nottingham Forest v Bournemouth predicted line-ups

Nottingham Forest: Vitor Pereira says his side can “relax a bit”, with Premier League safety assured and no need to take any risks with half-fit players. Murillo and Ola Aina remain out, while Dan Ndoye could feature at some point. Ibrahim Sangare returned off the bench last time out and could start here, while Jair Cunha is an option to come into defence. Taiwo Awoniyi might also be handed a start at the expense of either Igor Jesus or Chris Wood.

Bournemouth: There appears no reason for anything to change where Bournemouth are concerned with the Cherries unbeaten in 17 games and fresh from an excellent draw against Man City. Ryan Christie remains suspended. Justin Kluivert and Lewis Cook returned off the bench on Tuesday night, but it would be a leap for them to start here.

See: Bournemouth team news

Sunderland v Chelsea predicted line-ups

Sunderland: Regis Le Bris must be inclined to change little after his side beat Everton last time out, although a “late decision” will be taken on Omar Aldarete, who departed early through injury in that win. Should he not make it, Luke O’Nien is the likely deputy. Chemsdine Talbi is unavailable after picking up an injury off the bench last weekend. Habib Diarra and Chris Rigg may well be consigned to substitute duties again.

See: Sunderland team news

Chelsea: Calum McFarlane delivered encouraging news on a number of Chelsea players before this match, confirming that Levi Colwill, Joao Pedro and Reece James had all been training since the victory over Spurs. That trio could start if deemed sufficiently fit. James may be deployed in defence or midfield, which will affect whether Malo Gusto or Andrey Santos play. Trevoh Chalobah could come in for Wesley Fofana, with the possibility of changes to both centre-backs.

See: Chelsea team news

Spurs v Everton predicted line-ups

Spurs: Having stuck with the same XI last time out, Roberto De Zerbi confirmed Dominic Solanke is available again, while James Maddison’s increasing minutes must make a start a possibility. Djed Spence is also available despite picking up a jaw injury in the Chelsea defeat. The big questions are how long De Zerbi believes Solanke and Maddison can last, and whether he tries to alter things by replacing Randal Kolo Muani with Spence, Lucas Bergvall or someone else.

See: Spurs team news

Everton: David Moyes stuck with an unchanged XI last weekend, but saw his Everton side lose to Sunderland. Despite not yet training with the team before Friday’s press conference, Idrissa Gueye has a “50/50 chance” of being involved, according to Moyes. The same starting team appears plausible here, especially after Merlin Rohl scored Everton’s only goal last weekend. Any changes would likely involve Dwight McNeil, Tyrique George or Thierno Barry

See: Everton team news

West Ham v Leeds predicted line-ups

West Ham: Having stuck with a back three to face Newcastle last weekend, Nuno Espirito Santo ripped up his plan within half an hour and reverted to a four-man defence. Expect that to remain here for this must-win game. The only real questions are whether he opts for Kyle Walker-Peters or Aaron Wan-Bissaka at right-back, and Pablo or Callum Wilson as the support for Valentin Castellanos.

See: West Ham team news

Leeds: Leeds continue to endure a number of injury problems to end the season, although that did not prevent them from beating Brighton last weekend. Ilia Gruev, Noah Okafor and Gabriel Gudmundsson remain out, and the absentees have now been joined by Anton Stach and Sean Longstaff. Pascal Struijk and Jayden Bogle are at least back in training, but their availability is uncertain. Brenden Aaronson should be available after picking up a dead leg last time out. The final spot appears to be between him and Wilfried Gnonto, with Daniel Farke facing few attacking options.

Arsenal have been crowned Premier League champions for the first time in 22 years, but there is still plenty to play for elsewhere on the final day of the season.

Indeed, six of the 10 games to be played on the last day still carry significant stakes.

Places in the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League and UEFA Conference League are still to be determined, while one of Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United will be relegated to the EFL Championship, joining Burnley and Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Race for Europe

Aston Villa

Current position: 4th

Possible final positions: 4th or 5th

Villa would confirm fourth place by avoiding defeat at Manchester City.

Unai Emery's side had already secured a place in next season’s Champions League by confirming a top-five finish, thanks to the Premier League being given a European Performance Spot (EPS). However, their Europa League triumph means that if they drop down to fifth, the extra Champions League berth would instead go to the team in sixth.

For that to happen, Villa would have to lose to Man City and fifth-placed Liverpool would have to beat Brentford.

No matter what happens on the final day, fifth place will qualify for the Champions League and eighth place will qualify for the Conference League.

If Villa finish fourth, then both sixth and seventh would qualify for the Europa League. But if Villa finish fifth, sixth will qualify for the Champions League and seventh for the Europa League.

Liverpool

Current position: 5th

Possible final positions: 4th, 5th or 6th

Due to their superior goal difference, Liverpool can leapfrog Villa into fourth place if they defeat Brentford and Villa lose against Man City.

Liverpool are three points clear of sixth-placed AFC Bournemouth and only need a point against Brentford to confirm their Champions League place. If they lose against Brentford, they will only not finish fifth if Bournemouth win against Nottingham Forest while overturning a six-goal deficit in goal difference.

Bournemouth

Current position: 6th

Possible final positions: 5th, 6th or 7th

Bournemouth have already confirmed a spot in Europe next season, but in which competition is still to be determined.

If Villa lose against Man City and Liverpool beat Brentford, Bournemouth can qualify for the Champions League by avoiding defeat at Forest, or if Brighton & Hove Albion fail to beat Manchester United.

There is also the remote possibility of an end-of-season playoff to decide the final Champions League place. This would require Liverpool to lose 1-0 to Brentford and Bournemouth win 5-0 at Forest. Their goals scored, goals conceded, head-to-head points and away goals against one another would all be identical.

Brighton & Hove Albion

Current position: 7th

Possible final positions: 6th, 7th, 8th or 9th

Brighton are three points behind Bournemouth, but they have a superior goal difference, which means they would leapfrog the Cherries into sixth place if they beat Man Utd and Andoni Iraola’s side lose against Forest.

In this scenario, Brighton would also require Villa to lose against Man City and Liverpool beat Brentford, in order to qualify for the Champions League.

Victory for Brighton would ensure that they qualify for the Europa League at the very least, but defeat risks the possibility of dropping down to ninth place and missing out on Europe altogether.

Chelsea

Current position: 8th

Possible final positions: 7th, 8th, 9th 10th or 11th

Chelsea, in eighth, currently hold the Conference League spot. Because of their superior goal difference over Brentford, if they beat Sunderland at the Stadium of Light and Brighton fail to beat Man Utd, they will almost certainly finish seventh.

If Brighton lose by two goals and Brentford fail to win at Liverpool, Chelsea can also overtake the Seagulls with a draw.

Defeat for Chelsea would mean they fail to qualify for any European competition next season.

Brentford

Current position: 9th

Possible final positions: 7th, 8th, 9th 10th, 11th or 12th

Brentford currently sit one place outside of European qualification, level on points with Chelsea but with a +3 goal difference to the Blues' +7.

The Bees must better Chelsea’s result against Sunderland to secure a top-eight finish, but they can qualify for the Europa League if they defeat Liverpool at Anfield, and Chelsea and Brighton fail to win.

Sunderland

Current position: 10th

Possible final positions: 7th, 8th, 9th 10th, 11th or 12th

Sunderland are the lowest-placed team in the table that can still finish in the top eight, but defeating Chelsea is a prerequisite to do so.

They will qualify for Europe if they beat Chelsea and Brentford do not beat Liverpool. If both of those results occur and Brighton also lose against Man Utd, the Black Cats will finish seventh.

Relegation battle

Spurs

Current position: 17th

Possible final positions: 17th or 18th

West Ham

Current position: 18th

Possible final positions: 17th or 18th

Victory for Spurs against Everton guarantees safety.

Roberto De Zerbi’s side are two points clear of West Ham heading into the final day, but they have a superior goal difference of -10 to the Hammers' -22.

Even if Spurs draw with Everton, West Ham would need to beat Leeds United by 12 goals or more to finish above them. The largest winning margin in Premier League history is nine goals.

West Ham have to beat Leeds to have a chance of avoiding relegation. If they win and Spurs lose against Everton, the Hammers will stay up.

Arsenal have been crowned Premier League champions for the first time in 22 years, but there is still plenty to play for elsewhere on the final day of the season.

Indeed, six of the 10 games to be played on the last day still carry significant stakes.

Places in the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League and UEFA Conference League are still to be determined, while one of Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United will be relegated to the EFL Championship, joining Burnley and Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Race for Europe

Aston Villa

Current position: 4th

Possible final positions: 4th or 5th

Villa would confirm fourth place by avoiding defeat at Manchester City.

Unai Emery's side had already secured a place in next season’s Champions League by confirming a top-five finish, thanks to the Premier League being given a European Performance Spot (EPS). However, their Europa League triumph means that if they drop down to fifth, the extra Champions League berth would instead go to the team in sixth.

For that to happen, Villa would have to lose to Man City and fifth-placed Liverpool would have to beat Brentford.

No matter what happens on the final day, fifth place will qualify for the Champions League and eighth place will qualify for the Conference League.

If Villa finish fourth, then both sixth and seventh would qualify for the Europa League. But if Villa finish fifth, sixth will qualify for the Champions League and seventh for the Europa League.

Liverpool

Current position: 5th

Possible final positions: 4th, 5th or 6th

Due to their superior goal difference, Liverpool can leapfrog Villa into fourth place if they defeat Brentford and Villa lose against Man City.

Liverpool are three points clear of sixth-placed AFC Bournemouth and only need a point against Brentford to confirm their Champions League place. If they lose against Brentford, they will only not finish fifth if Bournemouth win against Nottingham Forest while overturning a six-goal deficit in goal difference.

Bournemouth

Current position: 6th

Possible final positions: 5th, 6th or 7th

Bournemouth have already confirmed a spot in Europe next season, but in which competition is still to be determined.

If Villa lose against Man City and Liverpool beat Brentford, Bournemouth can qualify for the Champions League by avoiding defeat at Forest, or if Brighton & Hove Albion fail to beat Manchester United.

There is also the remote possibility of an end-of-season playoff to decide the final Champions League place. This would require Liverpool to lose 1-0 to Brentford and Bournemouth win 5-0 at Forest. Their goals scored, goals conceded, head-to-head points and away goals against one another would all be identical.

Brighton & Hove Albion

Current position: 7th

Possible final positions: 6th, 7th, 8th or 9th

Brighton are three points behind Bournemouth, but they have a superior goal difference, which means they would leapfrog the Cherries into sixth place if they beat Man Utd and Andoni Iraola’s side lose against Forest.

In this scenario, Brighton would also require Villa to lose against Man City and Liverpool beat Brentford, in order to qualify for the Champions League.

Victory for Brighton would ensure that they qualify for the Europa League at the very least, but defeat risks the possibility of dropping down to ninth place and missing out on Europe altogether.

Chelsea

Current position: 8th

Possible final positions: 7th, 8th, 9th 10th or 11th

Chelsea, in eighth, currently hold the Conference League spot. Because of their superior goal difference over Brentford, if they beat Sunderland at the Stadium of Light and Brighton fail to beat Man Utd, they will almost certainly finish seventh.

If Brighton lose by two goals and Brentford fail to win at Liverpool, Chelsea can also overtake the Seagulls with a draw.

Defeat for Chelsea would mean they fail to qualify for any European competition next season.

Brentford

Current position: 9th

Possible final positions: 7th, 8th, 9th 10th, 11th or 12th

Brentford currently sit one place outside of European qualification, level on points with Chelsea but with a +3 goal difference to the Blues' +7.

The Bees must better Chelsea’s result against Sunderland to secure a top-eight finish, but they can qualify for the Europa League if they defeat Liverpool at Anfield, and Chelsea and Brighton fail to win.

Sunderland

Current position: 10th

Possible final positions: 7th, 8th, 9th 10th, 11th or 12th

Sunderland are the lowest-placed team in the table that can still finish in the top eight, but defeating Chelsea is a prerequisite to do so.

They will qualify for Europe if they beat Chelsea and Brentford do not beat Liverpool. If both of those results occur and Brighton also lose against Man Utd, the Black Cats will finish seventh.

Relegation battle

Spurs

Current position: 17th

Possible final positions: 17th or 18th

West Ham

Current position: 18th

Possible final positions: 17th or 18th

Victory for Spurs against Everton guarantees safety.

Roberto De Zerbi’s side are two points clear of West Ham heading into the final day, but they have a superior goal difference of -10 to the Hammers' -22.

Even if Spurs draw with Everton, West Ham would need to beat Leeds United by 12 goals or more to finish above them. The largest winning margin in Premier League history is nine goals.

West Ham have to beat Leeds to have a chance of avoiding relegation. If they win and Spurs lose against Everton, the Hammers will stay up.

Manchester City, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur are all backed at both ends of the pitch in the best team for the final Gameweek of 2025/26 Fantasy Premier League ahead of Sunday's 14:30 BST deadline.

All 10 Premier League matches get under way at 16:00 BST on Sunday, with Man City’s Golden Boot leader Erling Haaland (£14.7m) joined in the Scout Selection by his team-mate Nico O’Reilly (£5.3m) for the home fixture against Aston Villa.

Newcastle’s Nick Pope (£5.0m) and Bruno Guimaraes (£6.9m) visit Fulham, while Spurs’ Pedro Porro (£5.2m) and Richarlison (£6.4m) are at home to Everton as their relegation battle with West Ham United goes down to the last day of the season.

Haaland is handed the armband, with Richarlison named as vice-captain.

Nick Pope (Newcastle) £5.0m

The Newcastle goalkeeper visits a Fulham side who have struggled in attack of late, failing to score in six of their last nine Premier League matches. Indeed, the Cottagers have scored just five goals in that run from Gameweeks 29-37, and four of them were against relegated Burnley and Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Nico O’Reilly (Man City) £5.3m

Man City's versatile defender is among a select group of only seven players who have produced 100+ points in home matches this season. O'Reilly has blanked in just two of his 14 starts at the Etihad Stadium due to his impact at both ends of the pitch - he has combined four goals and four assists with eight clean sheets to average 7.4 points per start, identical to Haaland.

Pedro Porro (Spurs) £5.2m

The Spaniard is Spurs' joint-top points scorer with Richarlison over their six matches under Roberto De Zerbi, earning 24 points thanks to a goal, a clean sheet, six defensive contribution points and two bonus points. Porro has been handed a big share of set-piece duties by De Zerbi and has created 13 chances since the Italian took charge in Gameweek 32, twice the total of any team-mate.

Nordi Mukiele (Sunderland) £4.6m

Two goals, four assists and six clean sheets in 16 home starts highlight the all-round contribution of Sunderland's right-back at the Stadium of Light this season. The underlying numbers suggest Mukiele can add another shutout against Chelsea - over their last four matches, the Blues have had a league-low total of four big chances, which are situations where a player is expected to score.

Bruno Fernandes (Man Utd) £10.4m

The Portuguese's outstanding form makes him an easy pick for Manchester United's visit to Brighton & Hove Albion. Fernandes has blanked just once over the last 10 Gameweeks, scoring twice and supplying 11 assists to total 76 points, more than any other player in Fantasy.

Morgan Gibbs-White (Nott’m Forest) £7.5m

Nottingham Forest's midfielder has scored five goals and supplyed two assists over his last four matches to collect 44 points. Gibbs-White is second only to his team-mate Elliot Anderson (£5.6m) and Jarrod Bowen (£7.7m) for transfers in ahead of Sunday's 14:30 BST deadline, earning 90,000+ new owners for Forest's home match against AFC Bournemouth.

Dominik Szoboszlai (Liverpool) £7.1m

A goal and three assists over the last three Gameweeks underline the Hungarian's form ahead of Liverpool's home match against Brentford. Szoboszlai collected 10 points in the reverse fixture in Gameweek 9 - he supplied an assist and earned two points for his 22 defensive contributions, the most he's made in a single match in 2025/26.

Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle) £6.9m

Similarly to Szoboszlai, the Newcastle star also delivered 10 points against his Gameweek 38 opponents Fulham earlier this season. Since recovering from injury and returning to the Magpies' starting line-up in Gameweek 34, Guimaraes' totals of eight shots, six chances created and 43 defensive contributions all rank among their top two players, showing his multiple routes to returns.

Erling Haaland (Man City) £14.7m

Having scored in five successive Premier League matches for the first time since Gameweeks 4-8, Man City's forward is the standout captain pick for Gameweek 38. The underlying numbers only enhance Haaland's armband appeal further - his totals of seven big chances and 15 shots in the box across his last four matches are both more than any other player in Fantasy.

Jarrod Bowen (West Ham) £7.7m

West Ham's talisman is the top target for managers in Gameweek 38, with 134,000+ bringing him in for the Hammers' crucial home match against Leeds United. Bowen has two double-figure hauls over his last three outings at London Stadium and is very likely to be involved if West Ham can defeat Daniel Farke's side and hope the Spurs result goes in their favour in their fight to avoid relegation.

Richarlison (Spurs) £6.4m

The Brazilian has stepped up his influence on Spurs under De Zerbi, with two goals and an assist across the last four matches earning him 22 points. Over those four contests, Richarlison has had five big chances and created two more of them, which means he was involved in seven big chances - second only to the eight of Haaland among all players in Fantasy during this period.

The Final Day of the 2025/26 Premier League season approaches on Sunday and while the title race is over there is still plenty to play for.

There are places in the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League and UEFA Conference League to be secured, while the final relegation spot will also be decided.

Even clubs without European qualification or Premier League safety to play for will still hope to finish the campaign on a high and potentially boost their prize money by securing a higher position in the table. Last season, each league place provided an extra £2.6million in prize money.

Here's what's at stake in all 10 matches on the Final Day.

Spurs v Everton

Tottenham Hotspur's midweek defeat at Chelsea means the relegation battle goes down to the wire, but Spurs' fate is in their own hands. The equation is simple: Beat Everton and they stay up. A draw would also almost certainly suffice, with Spurs’ goal difference superior to West Ham United's.

Everton’s European hopes are over but they can still finish in the top half for the first time in five years if they beat Spurs and Newcastle United and Sunderland both drop points.

West Ham v Leeds

It’s now or never for West Ham, who must beat Leeds United to preserve their Premier League status – and hope Spurs lose to Everton. The Hammers would move level on points with Spurs if they win and Spurs draw but their goal difference is significantly worse than that of their rivals.

Unless Everton beat Spurs, the Hammers will almost certainly be relegated to the Championship for the first time in 15 years.

For Leeds, it’s a case of trying to end the season as far up the table as they can. Three points could see them climb as high as 11th spot, which would cap an impressive first campaign back in the top-flight.

Liverpool v Brentford

Brentford are only outside the European places on goal difference and can still secure continental football for the first time in their history, with the Conference League and Europa League both possibilities.

Victory for Keith Andrews’ Bees would send them into the Europa League if Chelsea and Brighton both drop points. If Brentford win, Brighton & Hove Albion win and Chelsea fail to win at Sunderland, Brentford would leapfrog Chelsea into the Conference League spot.

Three Premier League games without a win means Liverpool still haven’t quite sealed a top-five finish and the Champions League qualification that comes with it. However, Arne Slot’s Reds would book their place in the competition with a draw against Brentford.

With a three-point cushion over AFC Bournemouth in sixth, Liverpool can afford to lose as long as Bournemouth don’t beat Forest.

Nottingham Forest v Bournemouth

Dropping points late on against Manchester City in midweek has made Bournemouth’s quest for UEFA Champions League qualification more difficult, but that 1-1 draw – which extended their club-record Premier League unbeaten run to 17 games – has guaranteed the Cherries European football for the very first time, in the form of the Europa League.

But it could yet get even better for Bournemouth, as there are still two ways into the Champions League for them. A Liverpool win against Brentford coupled with an Aston Villa defeat at Man City, would result in Liverpool moving up to fourth and Villa dropping down to fifth, given the Reds have a superior goal difference.

Fifth place in the Premier League will be given a European Performance Spot (EPS) in the Champions League, but Villa have already qualified for the competition by winning the Europa League. Consequently, should Villa finish fifth, the EPS spot will be passed down to sixth sending that club (currently Bournemouth) into the Champions League instead of the Europa League. Bournemouth can seal sixth-place with a draw as they are three points ahead of Brighton.

The second way is to beat Nottingham Forest, while hoping Liverpool lose to Brentford and that there’s a seven-goal swing in both games. In that scenario, Bournemouth would finish fifth.

Forest, meanwhile, have already secured a fifth straight Premier League campaign and can finish no lower than their current position of 16th. They could yet climb a spot to 15th place, though.

Brighton v Man Utd

Brighton would qualify for Europe with a win against Manchester United regardless of other results. A draw would almost certainly be enough given how much better their goal difference is than 10th-placed Sunderland’s, though only victory will give the Seagulls a chance of Champions League qualification.

If Brighton win and Bournemouth lose to Forest, Brighton would finish the season in sixth spot. Sixth is currently a Europa League spot, but, as stated above, it will become a Champions League spot if Villa finish fifth.

Whatever the result on Sunday, Man Utd will finish third. History could be made on an individual level, however.

Whether he earns the assist record outright or not, Fernandes is certain to win the 2025/26 Golden Playmaker award, standing eight clear of his nearest rival, Rayan Cherki of Man City, with 12 assists.

Sunderland v Chelsea

Sunderland’s encounter with Chelsea could be a winner-takes-all showdown for European qualification, with the two sides separated in the table by a single point.

A Chelsea victory would guarantee the Blues a place in the Conference League at worst, while Sunderland must win and hope Brentford drop points to Liverpool.

Sunderland would qualify for the Europa League if they win, Brentford fail to beat Liverpool and Brighton lose to Man Utd.

Both teams could still make it into the Europa League. Chelsea would do so if they win and Brighton fail to beat Man Utd – or if they draw, Brighton lose to Man Utd by two or more goals, and Brentford drop points against Liverpool.

Man City v Aston Villa

Erling Haaland’s stoppage-time equaliser at Bournemouth on Tuesday was too little too late for Man City in the title race, but the Norwegian goal machine is poised to win another Premier League Golden Boot.

Haaland is currently five goals ahead of his nearest challenger, Brentford's Igor Thiago, and almost certain to claim his third Golden Boot in four seasons since arriving in the Premier League in 2022.

If he does so, Haaland will draw level with Harry Kane and Alan Shearer for the second-most all-time Golden Boot wins.

Villa are riding high after beating Freiburg 3-0 in Wednesday’s Europa League final. Unai Emery’s side would end their domestic campaign in fourth spot should they avoid defeat at the Etihad Stadium.

Crystal Palace v Arsenal

The Premier League title race has been won. Arsenal are the champions and their trip to Crystal Palace will be an afternoon of celebration – culminating in the trophy lift, which will be the first to take place away from the league winners’ home ground since 2019.

It is a huge week for Mikel Arteta’s side, who face Paris Saint-Germain in next Saturday's Champions League final.

Victory against Palace could see Gunners goalkeeper David Raya make individual history. The Golden Glove winner is currently tied with David Seaman for the most clean sheets for Arsenal in a Premier League season with 19.

Palace are also preparing for a European final – they take on Rayo Vallecano in the UEFA Conference League next Wednesday – but could still finish as high as 14th with a win in Oliver Glasner’s final Premier League game in charge.

Fulham v Newcastle

Both out of European contention but level on points, Fulham and Newcastle United are aiming to finish as far up the table as they can, with the top half still in their sights.

For Newcastle, there’s the added incentive of finishing above local rivals Sunderland, which they would do if they win at Craven Cottage and the Black Cats drop points at home to Chelsea.

Burnley v Wolves

As far as relegation goes, Burnley and Wolverhampton Wanderers' fate has been sealed for a while now, but neither side will want to finish bottom of the Premier League table.

Burnley head into this clash two points ahead of Wolves, and finishing 19th as opposed to 20th does make a significant difference in prize money.

The 2025/26 Premier League season reaches its penultimate weekend – and it could be a decisive one in the title race, the relegation battle and more.

Here’s all you need to know about what could be confirmed in Matchweek 37, which runs from Friday to Tuesday.

Arsenal could win the title

A gripping Premier League title race could be won in the penultimate Matchweek of the season.

Manchester City are still firmly in the race after their 3-0 victory over Crystal Palace on Wednesday, but they still trail leaders Arsenal by two points.

As such, Arsenal can put themselves within touching distance of a first Premier League title in 22 years by beating Burnley at Emirates Stadium on Monday night.

Three points for Mikel Arteta’s Gunners would leave Pep Guardiola’s Man City having to win at AFC Bournemouth on Tuesday night to take the title race to the final day.

Anything less than three points for Man City and Arsenal would be crowned champions with a game to spare.

Liverpool and Villa can clinch Champions League qualification

Aston Villa entertain Liverpool on Friday night, where victory for either side would confirm their place in next season’s UEFA Champions League. A draw would also be enough for both teams to clinch qualification as long as Bournemouth fail to beat Man City on Tuesday.

Villa or Liverpool can also afford to lose as long as Bournemouth lose to Man City and Brighton & Hove Albion fail to win at Leeds United on Sunday.

For Liverpool, finishing in the top five of the Premier League is their only route to Champions League football.

Villa, meanwhile, could qualify by one of two ways: either by securing a top-five finish or by winning the UEFA Europa League final against Freiburg on Wednesday 20 May – the winners of that final will qualify for the Champions League.

Bournemouth and Brighton could seize European spots

Sixth in the table and unbeaten in 16 Premier League matches, Bournemouth are on track to enjoy the best campaign in their history – which could include European qualification for the first time.

The top seven clubs are set to qualify for Europe - the UEFA Conference League at the very least - and a home win over Man City on Tuesday would secure a top-seven finish for Bournemouth, regardless of other results.

Should Brighton fail to win away to Leeds on Sunday, Bournemouth would head into the Man City clash knowing three points would carry even greater rewards - a top-six finish which would mean qualification for the Europa League at least.

There is still a possibility that sixth place will earn a Champions League spot.

For that to happen, Villa would have to win the Europa League final next Wednesday, which would secure their qualification for the Champions League, and then finish fifth in the Premier League.

Brighton could also seal a European spot with the right set of results in Matchweek 37.

Fabian Hurzeler’s men would secure a top-seven finish if they win at Leeds on Sunday and Brentford drop points against Crystal Palace at the same time.

Fernandes still has history in his sights

Sitting on 19 assists for the past two Matchweeks, Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes will be hoping to make it third time lucky in his pursuit of Premier League history in Sunday's home clash with Nottingham Forest.

Fernandes is just one assist away from equalling the record for the most in a Premier League season (20) – shared by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne.

The Portuguese hasn’t set up a goal in either of his side’s last two outings, but he’s not gone three games without an assist since early October.

Regardless, Fernandes is poised to win his first Premier League Playmaker of the Season award: he’s seven assists ahead of his nearest challenger for that prize, Man City’s Rayan Cherki.

Spurs could secure Premier League status

Having climbed out of the relegation zone with victory over Villa in Matchweek 35, Tottenham Hotspur could confirm their Premier League status in midweek.

Spurs don’t play until Tuesday night, when they travel to London rivals Chelsea, so they will be keeping a close eye on West Ham United’s Sunday evening trip to Newcastle United.

Anything but a West Ham win will leave Spurs able to secure their top-flight safety with a win at Stamford Bridge.

If West Ham beat Newcastle, however, Spurs will be back in the bottom three by the time they face Chelsea and, regardless of how Roberto De Zerbi’s side fare against the Blues, the battle to beat the drop will go to the final day.

Brighton and Man Utd face off for Premier League 2 title

The 2025/26 Premier League 2 campaign concludes this Saturday, with Brighton and Man Utd’s Under-21 teams meeting in the playoff final at the Amex Stadium to decide this season’s champions.

Brighton are looking to win the competition for the first time, while Man Utd are chasing their first title for 10 years.

The Seagulls have home advantage as the route to the final was pre-determined before the Premier League 2 playoffs started.