A rare midweek round left Premier League squads tired heading into a congested festive period. Saturday lunchtime brings a high-stakes fixture as Aston Villa host Arsenal after both clubs have produced one of the division’s best recent runs. Only Manchester City can better Aston Villa and Arsenal’s league record across the past five matches, and Villa Park promises a frenetic start to Gameweek 15.

Former Arsenal manager Unai Emery has been a recurring problem for his former club, with the Gunners having only one win in their previous four meetings with him. Villa recovered from two goals down to beat Brighton 4–3 midweek and have won their last eight home games in all competitions. Arsenal look superior this season, but a stumble here could increase pressure if Man City beat Sunderland later the same day.

Chelsea’s hopes of entering the title race were damaged by a 3–1 defeat at Elland Road to Leeds. Enzo Maresca’s side face Bournemouth, who have lost four of their last five matches and have dropped to 14th. Chelsea remain inconsistent, so victory is not guaranteed, but a positive result would keep them on the periphery of contention.

Nottingham Forest’s appointment of Sean Dyche has brought three wins from four and a climb out of the relegation zone to 16th. Everton have also won three of four and will look to get one over their former manager. Defences should dominate this encounter.

Man City arrive at the Etihad after two chaotic wins, including a 5–4 victory at Fulham and a 3–2 win over Leeds. Sunderland have already taken points from Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool and will aim to test City again. Denying Erling Haaland and Phil Foden will be crucial.

Newcastle must beat Burnley as they aim to climb the table; Burnley have lost five straight in the Premier League. Tottenham host Brentford in a match that pits Thomas Frank against his former club and his former set-piece coach Keith Andrews. Liverpool travel to Leeds under pressure following another inconsistent performance. Brighton can finish the weekend in the top four with victory over West Ham. Fulham and Crystal Palace should be tight, and Manchester United are expected to beat winless Wolves on Monday.

Predictions: Aston Villa 1–1 Arsenal; Bournemouth 2–2 Chelsea; Everton 1–0 Nottingham Forest; Man City 2–1 Sunderland; Newcastle 2–0 Burnley; Tottenham 2–1 Brentford; Leeds 2–2 Liverpool; Brighton 3–1 West Ham; Fulham 1–1 Crystal Palace; Wolves 1–2 Man Utd.