The Premier League finally returns after a two-week international break with cracking match-ups that promise nail-biting drama, intensity, and memorable moments. As the 2024-25 season progresses, Premier League clubs are hungry for points to improve their current positions.
This weekend is packed with clashes that could shake up the table. For Nigerian football fans, here’s why you should grab your Showmax subscription and dive into the action!
1. Arsenal’s Redemption Quest
The Gunners are under pressure. After a series of setbacks-losses to Bournemouth, Newcastle as well as draws against Liverpool and Chelsea-they are winless in four league games. Now, they face Nottingham Forest, who are currently exceeding all expectations as the sit in fifth position on the table and on the same point tally as Arsenal with 19. This adds extra spice to the encounter.
A Forest win will see them leapfrog Arsenal and further dent their title aspirations. Will Arsenal regain some of the lost ground in the title race, where they trail the league leaders, Liverpool, by nine points and Incumbent champions, Manchester City, by five or will Forest continue their dream run?
2. Can Spurs Keep City Down again?
Manchester City, usually the epitome of dominance, are enduring a rare slump. Pep Guardiola’s men have lost four consecutive matches in all competitions for the first time under his management, including a humbling defeat to Tottenham in the EFL Cup. With Spurs visiting the Etihad, City will be out for revenge as well as being aware that any outcome other than victory could further widen the point gap between them and Liverpool.
Spurs have a decent record against City and will take encouragement from that. Will City overcome their current woes against Ange Postecoglou’s fearless Tottenham side? Expect goals, drama, and maybe another battle of Haaland vs Romero.
3. Liverpool’s Tight Grip on the Summit
Under Arne Slot, Liverpool are flying high at the top of the table, showcasing the kind of form that wins championships. They face Southampton, who are struggling at the bottom and desperate to escape relegation. This top-vs-bottom clash may seem straightforward, but Southampton’s fight for survival could add spice to the encounter. Can Liverpool extend their lead, or will Southampton pull off a shocker?
4. Chelsea’s Search for Stability
Chelsea are looking more coherent than they were for much of last season. They have shown coherence and resilience against top-six teams with back-to-back draws and are eager to bounce back from an EFL Cup loss to Newcastle. This weekend, they visit Leicester City, who sit dangerously close to the relegation zone. Can Chelsea find their rhythm, or will the Foxes spring a surprise at home to spark a revival of their Premier League survival bid?
5. Manchester United’s New Era
The brief reign of former club idol Ruud van Nistelrooy, in an interim capacity, banished the snake and ladders form under the departed Erik ten Hag. This has provided a decent platform for the new manager, Ruben Amorim, who will hope for a victory in his first game to immediately win the fans over.
Their last game before the break was a heartwarming 3-0 win against Leicester City. This weekend, they take on newly promoted Ipswich Town. On paper, United should win. But football is played on grass, and as Spurs discovered when they hosted Ipswich, underdogs can bite. A fairytale under the Portman Road lights is not an impossibility. United will do well to note that.
Match Schedule
Enjoy an action-packed weekend of Premier League football (Times in WAT):
Saturday, 23 November
1:30 PM: Leicester City vs. Chelsea
4:00 PM: AFC Bournemouth vs. Brighton & Hove Albion
4:00 PM: Arsenal vs. Nottingham Forest
4:00 PM: Aston Villa vs. Crystal Palace
4:00 PM: Everton vs. Brentford
4:00 PM: Fulham vs. Wolverhampton Wanderers
6:30 PM: Manchester City vs. Tottenham Hotspur
Sunday, 24 November
3:00 PM: Southampton vs. Liverpool
5:30 PM: Ipswich Town vs. Manchester United
Monday, 25 November
9:00 PM: Newcastle United vs. West Ham United
How to Watch the Action
Stream every match live on Showmax for just ₦3,200/month with the Premier League Mobile Plan. From thrilling goals to match-defining moments, enjoy every second of the action wherever you are. Visit www.showmax.com to sign up today and make your weekend all about football.
Don’t miss out—Showmax brings the Premier League closer than ever to Nigerian fans. Grab your jersey, settle in, and let the drama unfold!