How Liverpool’s Next Five Fixtures Compare to Arsenal’s After Aston Villa Setback – Premier League Title Race

Liverpool Stumbled in Premier League Title Bid After Drawing with Aston Villa

Liverpool had a golden opportunity to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table but failed to capitalize, settling for a 2-2 draw against Aston Villa at Villa Park. This result left Liverpool eight points clear of Arsenal, although the Reds have played one game more than their title rivals.

Aston Villa, managed by Unai Emery, has proven to be a tough opponent for many top clubs this season. Despite a respectable point away from home, Liverpool fans and players alike would have preferred a victory, especially given the intense competition in the Premier League title race. The draw has raised concerns about Liverpool’s ability to maintain their form in the crucial weeks ahead.

Meanwhile, Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal will be looking to take full advantage of any slip-ups by Liverpool, as the Gunners aim to reclaim the top spot in the league. With both teams facing a demanding schedule, let’s break down how Liverpool’s next five fixtures compare to Arsenal’s upcoming challenges.

Liverpool’s Next Five Premier League Fixtures

1. Manchester City (A) – 23/02/25, 16:30 GMT

Liverpool’s next challenge is arguably their toughest, as they head to the Etihad Stadium to face reigning Premier League champions Manchester City. Despite City’s struggles this season, including an early exit from the Champions League, they remain formidable at home.

Pep Guardiola’s men recently thrashed Newcastle United 4-0, showcasing their attacking firepower. If Liverpool wish to maintain their title charge, they must overcome their historically poor record at the Etihad.

2. Newcastle United (H) – 26/02/25, 20:15 GMT

Next up, Liverpool welcome Newcastle United to Anfield. Eddie Howe’s side has been inconsistent this season, but they possess game-changers like Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon.

This fixture is also a dress rehearsal for the Carabao Cup final, adding an extra layer of intensity. Liverpool must ensure they dominate at home and secure all three points.

3. Southampton (H) – 08/03/25, 15:00 GMT

On paper, this appears to be Liverpool’s easiest fixture in the next five games. Southampton has struggled throughout the season and sits at the bottom of the league table. However, Liverpool have found it difficult to break down defensive sides, having narrowly won their last two encounters against the Saints.

4. Everton (H) – 02/04/25, 20:00 GMT

Following the March international break, Liverpool return to action with the much-anticipated Merseyside derby against Everton. Their local rivals, despite battling relegation, will be highly motivated to dent Liverpool’s title hopes.

Everton’s physical style of play and defensive resilience could pose problems, making this a tricky fixture for Liverpool at Anfield.

5. Fulham (A) – 05/04/25, 15:00 GMT

Liverpool then travel to Craven Cottage to face Fulham, a side they struggled against earlier in the season, drawing 2-2 at Anfield. Marco Silva’s men have been unpredictable, and their home form makes them a potential banana skin for Liverpool.

Arsenal’s Next Five Premier League Fixtures

While Liverpool face their own challenges, Arsenal’s upcoming fixtures are also crucial in determining whether they can overtake the Reds in the Premier League title race.

1. West Ham United (H) – 22/02/25, 15:00 GMT

Arsenal kick off their next run of fixtures with a home clash against West Ham United. The Gunners dominated the Hammers earlier this season, securing a 5-2 victory at the London Stadium.

With Graham Potter now in charge, West Ham will be aiming for a better performance, but Arsenal should be confident of collecting all three points at the Emirates Stadium.

2. Nottingham Forest (A) – 26/02/25, 19:30 GMT

Arsenal then travel to the City Ground to take on Nottingham Forest, a side that has proven resilient at home. Forest have taken four points off Liverpool this season, showing they are capable of frustrating title challengers.

Given their struggles on the road against well-organized defensive teams, Arsenal must be wary of dropping points here.

3. Manchester United (A) – 09/03/25, 16:30 GMT

Next, Arsenal face Manchester United at Old Trafford, historically a tough venue for them. Despite United’s underwhelming season under Ruben Amorim, they have the potential to cause an upset.

The Gunners suffered an FA Cup defeat to United earlier this season, and Arteta will need to ensure his team is prepared for a difficult battle.

4. Chelsea (H) – 16/03/25, 13:30 GMT

One of Arsenal’s biggest games in this run is the clash against Chelsea at the Emirates. Despite Chelsea’s struggles this season, London derbies are always unpredictable. Mauricio Pochettino’s side has been inconsistent, but they will be eager to disrupt Arsenal’s title charge.

5. Fulham (H) – 01/04/25, 19:45 GMT

Finally, Arsenal will host Fulham, a side they have failed to beat in their last three meetings. With Liverpool playing Fulham just days later, this fixture could play a decisive role in the title race.

Comparing Liverpool and Arsenal’s Fixtures

Both Liverpool and Arsenal have difficult fixtures ahead, but who has the tougher schedule?

• Liverpool face Manchester City away, a daunting challenge, while Arsenal’s toughest away fixture is against Manchester United.
• Both teams play Newcastle and Fulham, but Liverpool’s Merseyside derby against Everton could be more physically demanding than Arsenal’s London derbies.
• Liverpool’s clash with Southampton looks easier on paper, while Arsenal’s trip to Nottingham Forest could be trickier.

With both clubs dealing with injuries and fatigue, the next five games could define the Premier League title race.

Conclusion: Who Has the Advantage in the Title Race?

While Liverpool remain favorites, their dropped points against Aston Villa have made things more complicated. If Arsenal can capitalize on their upcoming fixtures, they could close the gap or even overtake Liverpool in the Premier League title race.

Ultimately, it all comes down to consistency. If Liverpool can win their key matches, especially against Manchester City, they will remain in control. On the other hand, if Arsenal go on a winning streak, they could put immense pressure on the Reds.

With both teams entering a crucial period, the Premier League title race remains wide open. Football fans can expect an exhilarating finish to the season!